As the crisp air of autumn settles in and pumpkins start appearing everywhere, it’s easy to think of them just for carving spooky faces or baking delicious pies. But what if you could transform a humble pumpkin into a vibrant, living piece of decor? As you can see in the images, creating a pumpkin planter is a delightful and surprisingly simple way to bring a touch of seasonal charm to your home or garden. It’s also a fantastic project to add a pop of colour with beautiful autumn flowers like pansies, which thrive in cooler weather.
The first step, much like preparing a pumpkin for carving, involves hollowing it out. This can be a bit messy, but it’s all part of the fun! Carefully cut a lid from the top of your chosen pumpkin. Then, with a sturdy spoon or small trowel, get ready to scoop out all the seeds and stringy pulp. You’ll want to make sure the inside is as clean as possible to create a good home for your plants. A thorough scraping will ensure there’s plenty of room for soil and roots, and it helps the pumpkin last a little longer as a planter.
Once your pumpkin is perfectly hollowed and ready, it’s time for the exciting part: planting! For an autumnal look, consider using pansies in shades of orange and black, as beautifully demonstrated in the ‘after’ image. These hardy little flowers are perfect for cooler temperatures and offer a striking contrast against the pumpkin’s bright orange skin. Fill the bottom of your hollowed pumpkin with a good-quality peat-free potting mix, then carefully place your pansies inside, nestling them snugly. Top up with more soil around the base of the plants, gently firming it in, and give them a good drink of water.
And there you have it – a stunning, unique, and easy-care pumpkin planter! This project is not only a fantastic way to utilise pumpkins beyond Halloween, but also allows you to showcase your favorite autumn blooms. Place your finished creation on your doorstep, patio, or as a centerpiece on your outdoor table. It’s a temporary decoration, but one that brings immense joy and a wonderful festive atmosphere. Happy planting!
