Pumpkins are the ultimate autumn decoration, but you can do so much more than just pile them around or carve jack-o-lanterns. Pumpkin planters are easy to create and there are many ways to use them beautifully for all your fall decorating.
Pick Your Pumpkin
While any pumpkin can be carved as a planter, a round pumpkin with a sturdy, level base will be easiest to use for planting without risks of tipping or looking unbalanced. Very small, narrow or skinny pumpkins may not have enough of a central cavity for effective planting. Whatever shape you choose, the pumpkin should have firm, solid flesh without any splits, cracks or bruises that would make the planter decay more quickly.
After choosing your pumpkin, wash it carefully to remove any excess dirt, dust or other debris from the skin. If desired, you can also paint the pumpkin either a solid color or create a pattern on your pumpkin "pot" before planting it.
Plants for Your Pumpkin Planter
Any plant you would normally put in a container can easily be added to a pumpkin planter. Popular options include fall favorites such as chrysanthemums in rich autumn tones, as well as other seasonal blooms. You can also plant herbs in smaller pumpkins for a windowsill garden, or even use tiny pumpkins as succulent planters. For the largest pumpkins, remember the "thriller, filler, spiller" formula for choosing different plants, and consider draping or weeping plants that will help conceal the lip of the planter so any messy cuts aren't visible.
Carving Your Planter
You will need a very sharp knife to carve your pumpkin planter smoothly with clean, even cuts. Children should be carefully supervised if they will be assisting in this project.
Pumpkin planters can be displayed anywhere you'd like, from decorating a front entryway to accenting a deck, patio or gazebo outdoors, or even bringing them inside as centerpieces or mantle accents. Well-crafted pumpkin planters can even make great autumn gifts or could be used as party accents. If using your planter indoors, be sure to protect surfaces from moisture whenever you water the plants.
Proud Pumpkin Planter Displays
Care for pumpkin planters just as you would any containers. Choose their position to give plants adequate sunlight, and protect them from damaging storms or strong winds. Water plants as needed, ensuring that the pumpkin's drainage holes are not blocked. In time, the pumpkin planter will begin to rot and soften, but you can extend its lifetime by keeping in a cool, dry, shaded location as much as possible. After it can't be used anymore, you can compost the pumpkin or put it where wildlife can feast. With all the enjoyment you've gotten from your pumpkin planter, you'll want to have even more pumpkins on hand for more of these beautiful pots next fall!