How to Make a Pumpkin Planter

A plump pumpkin filled with autumn flowers or succulents is a ‘now’ trend in fall decor. A hollowed pumpkin serves as a decorative outer ‘shell,’ holding a potted nursery plant. If you’re wondering how to make a pumpkin planter, read on for our how-tos and tips.

What kind of flowering plants look best in a pumpkin planter?

Fall-flowering plants such as chrysanthemums are a good choice. Other great selections include:

• Daisies
• Dianthus
• Heuchera
• Kale
• Million Bells
• Ornamental cabbage
• Ornamental grasses
• Pansy
• Succulents
• Sunflowers

Or, you can use a potted plant that you already have as long as it can withstand fall’s chilly temperatures.

How to Make a Pumpkin Planter

What You’ll Need

• Drill
• A large, sharp knife
• Medium-sized bowl
• Newspaper
• One medium to large pumpkin
• Potted nursery plant
• Scooping tool, ice cream scoop, or a large spoon

Choose Your Pumpkin and Potted Plant

Choose a pumpkin that has a firm, hard shell. One that is over-ripe will quickly become soft and won’t last as long.

1. Cut the Pumpkin – Cover the work area with newspaper.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut a hole in the top of the pumpkin. Cut the hole width, so it’s almost big enough to fit the plant container inside. Cut the hole smaller than you need, and then trim the sides until the pot fits inside.
3. Use a scoop or spoon to remove the pumpkin flesh and seeds. Save the flesh for recipes and the seeds for roasting, if you like.
4. Remove the Inner Rind – Use a scoop or a knife to ‘whittle down’ the flesh just under the edge of the opening. This will make it easier to fit the pot and plants inside the hole. Recheck the size of the opening to ensure the pot will fit inside.
5. Make Drainage Holes – Every plant container needs holes in the bottom for water to drain and prevent plant rot. Turn your pumpkin over to view the bottom. Use a hand drill to drill a few holes in the bottom of it.
6. Place the Plant Container Inside the Pumpkin – Slide the plant container into the hole. If needed, make the hole bigger or remove more flesh until the plant fits inside. If you find the planter is too short of reaching the top of the hole, place crumpled newspaper or dry mulch inside the pumpkin to elevate the plant. The top edge of the container should meet the top of the hole.

Is it best to use a real or fake pumpkin?

Both real and faux pumpkins will work well. A faux pumpkin will be less messy to carve and can be used again next year. Real pumpkins will look more natural, and the shell can be later tossed in the garden for fertilizer.

What size of pumpkin is best to use?

Any size of pumpkin or potted plant can be used, but make sure the container’s width and height aren’t larger than your pumpkins, or it may not fit inside. It’s best to use a fat, round pumpkins with a flat bottom. A tall, skinny pumpkin won’t be easy to make stable and may tip over.

How often should I add water to the finished planter?

The answer depends on the type of potted plant you choose. Water and feed your plant as usual, following instructions on the plant label.

Can I set my pumpkin planter outside?

Yes! Your pumpkin planter can be set on a front porch as well as on a dining table.

If you plan to use real pumpkins, it’s best to use shade-tolerant plants and set the planter in a shaded outdoor location. A natural pumpkin won’t last long when placed in direct sunlight.

Can I use a pumpkin as a vase?

Yes! It’s easy to make a pumpkin vase. Just set several flower-filled vases along a fireplace mantel or down the center of your dining table for a cute and easy autumn display.

1. Use a sharp paring knife to remove a small amount of flesh from the bottom of the pumpkin. This will ensure your pumpkin vase sits evenly on a flat surface.
2. Cut a small, round opening in the top of the pumpkin.
3. Scoop out the seeds.
4. Fill the pumpkin with water and add your favorite fresh flowers and greenery.
5. To arrange flowers, add the tallest flowers to the middle, and place flowers and greenery, working toward the outside of the vase until the arrangement is complete.
6. Enjoy your new DIY fall vase!

Bonus tip: If you plan to set your fall pumpkin planter outside, be sure to place it in a covered area inside your garden. Just like the hot sun, rain or snow can speed up the decay process. With care, your pumpkin planter will last from Halloween to Thanksgiving – even longer!