Pumpkins and gourds are synonymous with visions of autumn. Their familiar form and happy coloring can’t help but make you smile. Fresh pumpkins are not only for Jack o’ Lanterns. They make very festive containers for fall flowers.
[Teleflora's Somethin' Pumpkin bouquet
Just hollow out, insert a vase or plastic liner and fill with flowers. Add some wheat, vines, berries, grasses or millet for texture and variation. Try grouping pumpkins of different sizes in clusters to make a visually attractive display on your front steps or porch; tuck luscious chrysanthemum plants in between the pumpkins for color. Choose mum plants that are in tight bud and you will enjoy weeks of bloom.
You can even do this with smaller pumpkins and 4” chrysanthemum plants indoors on your dining table, breakfront or credenza. (Just remember to place cellophane or some type of plastic, under the pumpkins and plants to protect your table.) Loose fall leaves and mosses work well with these groupings to add interest and to cover pots and mechanics for a very natural look. The hardy varieties of chrysanthemum plants can be planted in the garden when they are finished flowering and will bloom again next year.
[Two little pumpkins and a bouquet make a festive fall centerpiece - Image Credit: dnorman via Flickr
Speaking of pumpkins and gourds, look for some of the new varieties such as the glorious white ones for a more contemporary look. Mix with brown leaves and pods adding beautiful white flowers such as lilies, chrysanthemums, hydrangeas or dahlias for a warm yet very modern presentation.
[Note: Homepage image for this post is also courtesy dnorman via Flickr used under a Creative Commons attribution license]
~Carol Caggiano, PFCI, AIFD
