Want to take your container planting game to a new level this fall? Then you need to try these adorable DIY pumpkin planters! Instead of using boring old plastic pots, you can take advantage of those cute gourds by turning them into a gorgeous DIY fall planter. They are easy to make and turn into perfect autumn decorations that brighten up any front porch or patio.
There are so many ways to personalize and spruce up pumpkin planters. You can spray-paint your pumpkins in metallic paint or even paint a face on your planter instead of carving it—and then plant grasses in it to give it a cool hairdo (super fun to do with kids!). Here’s how to get started on this simple craft this fall.
Make These Simple DIY Pumpkin Planters
You can use any size of pumpkin; just make sure that the nursery pot of the plant you choose will fit inside (consider height and diameter). The more variety you have in your pumpkin garden, the better!
You Will Need:
- Pumpkins
- A potted plant
- Newspaper
- A large knife
- Something to scoop out the pumpkin flesh
- A medium-sized bowl
At this time of year, you’re likely to find seasonal favorites like flowering kale, fall mums, and sunflowers. Keep traditional container gardening in mind when you head to the nursery to pick your plants for your pumpkin planter. You can never go wrong with the ‘thriller, filler, spiller’ combination. Grasses are great for height; consider a trailing sedum as your spiller and add some fall favorites like mums or flowering kale in there to really channel those autumn vibes!
Prepare Your Pumpkin
If you have ever carved a pumpkin before, then you likely know which steps come next! Choose an area to work, cover it with newspaper, and use your carving knife to cut a hole in the top of your soon-to-be pumpkin planter. You can eyeball the pot’s diameter you will be putting in there to start and then shave the hole back a little more later on if needed.
Next, scoop out all of the flesh and seeds. They can go in the compost bin, or you can roast the seeds with a little bit of salt, pepper, and garlic for a salty snack when you’re done with your project! Flip your pumpkin over to cut a drainage hole in the bottom, so your plant has proper drainage (and you slow the process of your pumpkin rotting), then pare down the inside of the pumpkin a little bit, so it’s easier to slide your pot in there. Now you’re ready to place your plant container in the pumpkin! If your pumpkin is a little too tall for the container you have, feel free to put some crumpled-up newspaper or wood chips in the bottom to elevate it a little.
Caring For Your Pumpkin Planter
Like any other container plant, you will care for your pumpkin planter according to the needs of the plants you have selected. Follow the proper watering and light requirements accordingly, and place your pumpkin planter somewhere that you can show it off this fall!
For more gorgeous fall landscaping, gardening, or décor ideas, or to pick up pumpkins in Bismarck, stop by Plant Perfect for a visit! We’ve got a lovely selection of seasonal favorites and all the materials you’ll need to make a beautiful DIY pumpkin planter this fall.