Pumpkin flower arrangements for autumn and Halloween

The pumpkin is the symbol of autumn and Halloween — and a wonderful natural vase. An arrangement of chrysanthemums, berries and grasses in a pumpkin brightens a table, porch or shop window and lasts longer than you might think. Here is how to make one yourself, which flowers to choose and how to make it last.

Autumn arrangements: chrysanthemums and flower baskets.

View full-size photo

How to make a pumpkin arrangement

• Choose a firm pumpkin with a flat base so it stands steady.
• Cut off the top and scoop out the flesh and seeds.
• Put a jar of water or wrapped wet floral foam inside: the pumpkin itself will rot quickly if you pour water straight in.
• Insert the flowers, largest first, then add berries, grasses and leaves.

View full-size photo

Which flowers work

• Chrysanthemums — long-lasting, in warm autumn shades.
• Dahlias and sunflowers — big accents.
• Rudbeckia, asters, gerberas — bright and affordable.
• Berries and decor — hypericum, physalis, rosehips, wheat ears, ornamental grasses.

View full-size photo

Ideas

• Several mini pumpkins in different colours on a tray with moss and candles.
• A pumpkin vase on the porch as an autumn welcome.
• A Halloween arrangement with deep burgundy flowers and black accents.
• If you use candles, choose LED ones: a real flame next to dry leaves and grasses is a fire risk.

View full-size photo

For autumn bouquet ideas see Autumn bouquets, and for garden flowers blooming in autumn see Autumn-flowering plants.

FAQ

How long does a pumpkin arrangement last?

A carved pumpkin keeps for about a week, longer in a cool spot; top up the flowers’ water.

Can I do it without carving?

Yes: put the flowers in a vase and arrange whole decorative pumpkins around it — they last several weeks.

Author: Maria Svitlovir

Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.

About the author →