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Project Pumpkin: How to Make a Pumpkin Centerpiece

There's a new twist on the typical Fall centerpiece-carving a pumpkin planter. It's a simple process, not much different than carving a Jack O' Lantern. But the results are organically stunning. Here's how to arrange the right flowers for the season and how to set a harvest-themed table. It is the perfect way to stand out while entertaining this Fall.

A step-by-step process for creating a pumpkin planter centerpiece for your harvest holiday table

Note: If you are doing a mixed container, you will need between 3-7 plants that are in 3-4 containers depending on the size of your pumpkin. Or, if you only want to use one plant (like a single mum), you will need a plant in an 8-10 container.

pumpkin

Step 1

  1. Select the perfect pumpkin. Make sure it doesn't have any soft spots or it will rot quickly. It should preferably be one with a flat bottom so it sits upright and doesn't rock. And, the larger the pumpkin, the more plants you will need.
  2. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the top off your pumpkin. Cut off a big chunk of the top, so the hole will be large enough to fit your plant(s).
  3. To maximize the number of plants you can use, cut down where the pumpkin is close to its widest.
someone cutting a pumpkin

Step 2

  1. Scoop out the loose pulp and seeds inside the pumpkin. (just like cleaning out a Jack O'Lantern for Halloween)
  2. A large metal spoon works well for scraping the inside walls.
  3. Save the seeds and roast them for a fun fall treat.
someone scooping out a pumpkin

Step 3

  1. Scrape the inside of your pumpkin until it's clean.
  2. Use the metal spoon to scrape away some of the "meat" to give you more planting room.
  3. The cleaner the inside of your pumpkin, the better.

Step 4

  1. Fill your pumpkin container with Miracle-Gro® Moisture Control® Potting Mix.
  2. Leave room at the top of the pumpkin for planting room.
  3. If you are only planting one large mum, grass, or kale, you can simply place the plant, pot and all, on top of the potting mix or remove it from the pot and plant it.
someone filling their pumpkin with Miracle-Gro moisture control potting mix

Step 5

  1. Arrange your plants.
  2. Pack the plants for an instant fill.
  3. If you're using small ornamental grasses or upright plants like ornamental peppers or mums, place them in the center of the pumpkin.
  4. Place low growing or trailing plants like calibrachoa, pansies, and sweet alyssum around the edges.
  5. Water the container lightly after planting to settle the plants and potting mix.
A pumpkin filled with flowers sitting on a table

Step 6

  • Add fall accessories like small scarecrows or other fall picks.
  • Be sure to place your finished container on a waterproof plate.
  • Water sparingly since there is no drainage holes in the bottom of your pumpkin.
  • The arrangement will last in your house for about 1-2 weeks.
  • For a longer lasting arrangement, place your pumpkin outside, where it's cool.