Today is a cool one here in Ohio and I am reminded that, even though the temps will be back in the 80s this week, fall is definitely on its way. Today I am sharing a new kind of fall project with you; how to make succulent pumpkins!
I took a local class a few years ago where a lady showed us how to make succulent pumpkins. I really loved the idea and the results. So I shared the process with my membership group. It’s been some time now so I wanted to share it with you all too.
It’s a very simple process and you can still use your succulents long after your pumpkin has faded and hit the compost bin. Since a good variety of colors and textures of succulents gives the pumpkins the most interest, this would be a great project to do with friends.
Everyone can share the succulents and other natural items they have. And you all go home with a unique and beautiful piece of fall decor!
How to Make Succulent Pumpkins
You can use absolutely any pumpkin you want for this project. Use any color or shape that you love. Tall ones, round ones, stumpy ones…they will all work great. Keep in mind that the wider the pumpkin, the more room you will have for plants.
Unless you can find a pumpkin with a really nice and tall stem, the stem doesn’t matter. Once you add your plants you won’t be able to see the stem unless it’s a tall one. If having a visible stem is important to you, you could always go in and hot glue a stick from your yard.
How to Care for your Succulent Pumpkin
Keeping your succulents alive is as easy on a pumpkin as it is in a pot. Since your plants are just cuttings and haven’t rooted, you don’t need to worry about watering them from the bottom. Just mist them with water from a spray bottle or mister now and then. They drink through their leaves and will be just fine.
Another way to prolong the life of your succulent pumpkin is to place it on a plate when you are done with it. I have used cardboard before and it caused the pumpkin to mold more quickly. So now I use a plate and all is well.
In the past I have made my succulent pumpkin for fall decor and had them last all the way past Christmas. Just keep their leave watered (go easy they are succulents after all) and the pumpkin will look great for months. I think they last longer if you keep them outside some too.
The cooler temps outdoors probably work to preserve the pumpkin and keep it from molding. I had a friend whose pumpkin was still going strong into the early spring!
Can I Really use Hot Glue on the Succulents?
I know it sounds crazy (I was skeptical myself) to use hot glue on a plant. But succulents are tough old birds! They will hold up to the abuse and be ready for replanting when your pumpkin starts to get yucky.
I keep an eye on my pumpkin and when I notice it is starting to fade, I get my dirt and pots ready. Then I gently remove the plants from the pumpkin and transplant them into dirt.
How to Make Succulent Pumpkins Supply List
- Pumpkin
- Spray adhesive (Super 77 is what I used. It is as super as it claims, very strong!)
- Sheet moss (You can find this at most craft stores and home repair stores)
- Succulent plants and cuttings
- Other natural items ( I used acorns, stick floral picks, pine cones and small dried crabapples in mine)
How to Make Succulent Pumpkins Instructions
- First, spray the top of your pumpkin with the spray adhesive.
- Next, cover the spray adhesive with pieces of the sheet moss. My pumpkin took 3 chunks to cover.
- Then, snip off any roots and use hot glue to attach your succulents to the moss. I promise this will be ok! Start with your large plants and pieces and then fill in with your smaller pieces.
The Wrap Up
And that’s how you make a succulent pumpkin, friends! It’s very simple and adds some beautiful life to your fall decor. If you are new to plant or flower arranging, don’t be scared! You can do some practice placement of your plants before you actually glue them in.
Try moving things around until you get the plants how you like them. And THEN go back and glue them down. Once you have practiced this a few times, you will start to develop a natural eye for plant placement. A skill that will aid you in other craft projects as well!
I would love to see how you use these beauties in your own home. So if you post any pictures of your succulent pumpkins on social media, tag me so I can check them out! As always, I hope you love this project as much as I do. Happy crafting, friends!
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