The first thing you need to do is find a good-looking pumpkin. You can choose the size and shape of pumpkin you like, so long as it’s big enough to hold your flowerpot. Try to find one that has a flat, stable base so that it holds the flowers when they’re placed in it.

When you’re choosing a pumpkin, it’s important to look for signs to make sure the pumpkin’s healthy. Start by looking at the flesh on the outside, making sure there are no splits or cracks. Then press into the pumpkin, especially around the base and the stem. Fresh pumpkins should be solid to the touch. Watch out for soft spots, which mean it has already started decaying.

Plant Fit For a Pumpkin

Choose a potted plant that will be able to stay outside in the cooler days and nights of fall. We recommend chrysanthemums (commonly called mums) because these flowers can continue to bloom and look beautiful when the weather’s cold. Ask at your local garden centre for other plants that can stay outside during this time of year.

Now that you have what you need, follow these steps for a great autumn outdoor decoration.

1. Carefully cut a circular opening in the top of the pumpkin. Make sure the hole is large enough to allow your flowerpot to be inserted. Once you’ve finished cutting, you can get rid of the top of the pumpkin.
2. Use a large spoon to remove the loose pulp and seeds from the pumpkin and throw them away (or you can roast them for a tasty treat). Then scrape the inside of the pumpkin so it’s smooth and clean.
3. Pour some sand into the bottom of the pumpkin.
4. Place your potted plant in the pumpkin. Adjust the pot in the sand until you have the right height for your flowers.
5. If you want to have a little more October fun, use black paint to paint a jack-o-lantern face on your pumpkin flowerpot.

This pumpkin flowerpot will look great when you first display it, but all pumpkins start to erode after they’ve been cut open. Help keep your pumpkin looking great with these simple tips.

• Pumpkins start losing their fresh look because they’re losing moisture. Spray your pumpkin with water every couple of days to keep it from drying out.
• Spread some petroleum jelly on all cut edges and the inside of your pumpkin to help prevent it from drying out.
• If you want, you can wipe down the sides of your pumpkin flowerpot with a little water and bleach to help prevent mould from growing on it.

These preservation tips will help your pumpkin last a little bit longer, usually about nine days. And you’ll love having it out by your front door that long, because in this season when everyone has a pumpkin out, yours will be truly unique.