These fall months I am giddy when it comes to decorating. My living space becomes inundated with pumpkins, gourds, wreaths, and, of course, autumn candles. I am also a big fan of incorporating fall flowers into the mix. Rather than have a glass vase showcasing the flowers, I love using more pumpkins to display the flowers. These arrangements work well on mantels, sitting beside fireplaces, on shelves and stairs, or on the patio. Because, it’s hard to have too many pumpkins, right?! Here are a couple variations of pumpkin planters and some tips on creating your own!

Colorful Autumn Colors

Gather all of falls’ most desirable colors and flowers together to create a festive arrangement. Colorful flowers of fall include sunflowers, chrysanthemums, dahlias, goldenrods. For texture, add sprigs of berries and warm-toned leaves. Use an orange pumpkin for additional color.

Muted Palette

For a more subtle look, I use neutral tones or soft colors. Include peonies, eucharis lily, ranunculus, gardenia and white chrysanthemum. Add all your favorite fall elements like pine cones, faded leaves, cotton, cattail, and dusty miller. This pairs nicely with farmhouse decor.

Creating a pumpkin planter:

• For longevity, cost and efficiency, use artificial craft pumpkins. They are made of foam and easy to style.
• Gather your favorite fall flowers.
• Using a knife, cut a circle through the pumpkin about two inches away from the stem.
• Trim the flowers to desired length.
• Place a square foam block inside the pumpkin. Secure foam block with hot glue to the base of the pumpkin. Allow to dry.
• Starting with the largest flowers first, push the stems into the foam block.
• Add other elements into the arrangement that are of varying heights. Pinecones, cattails, leaves and berries add variety and depth.
• If desired, glue the “lid” of the pumpkin to the side of the pumpkin using a hot glue gun.
• If you prefer a real pumpkin –  Take a plastic cup that is 1-2 inches smaller than your pumpkin. Turn the cup upside-down and trace a circle around the cup, around the pumpkin stem. Using a knife, cut through the traced portion of the pumpkin. Remove pumpkin seeds and flesh. Place plastic cup inside the pumpkin. Add your arrangement.

Live your life joyfully so,

Ashley