Home » DIY » Create Stunning Pumpkin Centerpieces with Fresh Fall Flowers

Create Stunning Pumpkin Centerpieces with Fresh Fall Flowers

Looking for ways to decorate a table for fall, Friendsgiving, or Thanksgiving gatherings? Learn how to create incredibly beautiful pumpkin centerpieces with fresh fall flowers with this step-by-step tutorial. But the best part? There’s no carving involved!

When you are a huge flower addict like me, creating beautiful centerpieces is part of the joy.

Cause I just love a beautiful dining table centerpiece, don’t you? It just makes a table feel special and finishes off a room.

No matter how elaborate or simple a centerpiece is, it is a necessary component for any seasonal dining table decor.

So whether you buy or DIY a centerpiece, don’t skip this step when decorating a table.

And if you are attending Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving at a friend or family’s home, offer to bring the centerpiece.

Cause it’s a nice touch!

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know how much I LOVE making centerpieces. Lately, I’ve been making several fresh flower arrangements using blooms from my cut flower garden. Like this cozy harvest table centerpiece idea.

But you don’t need to grow your own flowers to make a fresh centerpiece. Simply head to your local market or florist and choose from their array of blooms and greenery.

Fall is one of my favorite times of year to make a dining table centerpiece too. It’s so fun to change up autumn color palettes and fall flowers in different arrangements.

A while ago, I shared this simple dining table centerpiece with flowers and pumpkins.

To do a take on that pumpkin centerpiece idea, today I’m sharing how to make pumpkin centerpieces with fall flowers without needing to carve the pumpkin!

Wait until you see how beautiful this dining table centerpiece idea looks that is perfect for fall, Friendsgiving, or a Thanksgiving table.

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preorder my book the bricks 'n blooms guide to a beautiful and easy care flower garden
Click here to shop my vintage farmhouse with close up of the front porch with flowers

Friendsgiving Blog Hop

Thanks to my good friend Heidi from Eleanor Rose Home for pulling together such a beautiful group of talented bloggers with the most incredible Friendsgiving inspiration.

If you are new here, I’m Stacy, a self-taught master gardener who lives and gardens in northern New Jersey, zone 6a.

We live in a beautiful 1850 Farmhouse with 10 acres of gardens, sculptures, and statues.

I’ve been gardening for over 20 years and enjoy helping beginner gardeners find their inner green thumb, as well as discover a love for all things plants and flowers. I love to bring the outdoors inside my home too with a cottagecore decorating style.

I hope you enjoy visiting my home today and hope you come back so we can grow stuff and create beautiful spaces together.

If you are coming from Brittany from White and Wood Grain, welcome to my home!

fresh flowers and heirloom pumpkin centerpiece idea for the dining table with zinnias, dahlias, sedum autumn joy, ivy, celosia and boxwood

Why Pumpkins and Flowers Look Good Together

Flowers and pumpkins complement each other beautifully, creating a harmonious and visually pleasing combination.

The vibrant colors of flowers, with their delicate petals and graceful forms, provide a striking contrast to the robust and earthy appearance of pumpkins.

This pairing not only contrasts textures and shapes but also balances the warm, rustic hues of pumpkins with the lively and diverse color palette of flowers.

The result is a captivating display that captures the essence of both the autumn season and the vibrant beauty of nature, making them an ideal choice for festive decorations and charming garden arrangements.

flowers and pumpkin centerpiece idea for the dining table with zinnias, dahlias, celosia, boxwood, ivy and snapdragons on a bistro table with vintage sign

Best Fall Flowers for Pumpkin Centerpieces

The best fall flowers to grace pumpkin centerpieces are those that capture the rich and warm hues of the season while adding a touch of elegance to the arrangement.

Here are some fall garden flowers that look amazing in pumpkin centerpieces. Keep in mind, that not all of these make great cut flowers. The flowers that are not intended for cutting should be placed directly inside a pumpkin after carving.

  • Marigolds: With their vibrant orange and gold blooms, are a quintessential choice, infusing a burst of color reminiscent of autumn leaves.
  • Chrysanthemums: Deep red and burgundy tones can be achieved with the inclusion of chrysanthemums, which come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing for creative design possibilities.
  • Pansies: The rich jewel tones of pansies together with their happy faces look incredible with pumpkin table centerpieces.
  • Celosia: Celosia‘s unique plume-like or crested flower heads come in rich, warm colors like red, orange, and burgundy, which adds texture and visual interest to the centerpiece, creating a stunning focal point when paired with pumpkins.
  • Dahlias: Dahlias have intricate and captivating blooms that flower well into autumn and add a touch of sophistication to flower arrangements.
  • Zinnias: Zinnia flowers offer a burst of vibrant color, with shades ranging from deep reds and oranges to soft pinks and yellows. Their sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make them a practical addition to any arrangement.
  • Sunflowers: With their cheerful yellow petals, sunflowers can bring a cheerful and rustic charm to the display.
dahlia fleurel and labrynth in the cut flower garden
Dahlia Fleurel and Labrynth

3 Easy Ways to Make a Flowers and Pumpkins Centerpiece Idea for the Dining Table

There are three ways to make flower and pumpkin dining table centerpieces.

Each one creates a different look. And there’s no right or wrong way to do them.

  • Arrange flowers in vases and tuck pumpkins around them.
  • Carve a pumpkin and drop a vase or pot of flowers in.
  • Use floral foam on top of the pumpkin and make an arrangement.

Either way, you choose to make one, there is no prettier mix for fall than a bunch of fall flowers and pumpkins.

Here’s how to create flower and pumpkin centerpieces without having to carve the pumpkin.

flowers and pumpkin centerpiece idea for the dining table set on a bistro table on the porch

Supplies Needed

If you have access to flowers like I do in my garden, this dining table centerpiece won’t cost much to make.

And if you don’t have access, no worries head out to your local Trader Joe’s, Market, or Florist and try to find the best deal on flowers and greens.

Here’s what you need to make this dining table centerpiece with pumpkins and flowers.

Depending on the shape of your pumpkin, you may need to secure the floral foam bowl to the pumpkin so it is secure before arranging flowers.

Small dish with floral foam to set on top of the pumpkin to make a centerpiece with fresh cut flowers from the garden

Directions to Make Flowers and Pumpkins Centerpiece Idea for the Dining Table

Before getting started, shop around for an heirloom, cinderella, or flat-type pumpkin that can easily hold the weight of the flower arrangement.

And, make sure the top is as flat as possible so the arrangement sits well without toppling over. (Note: If the top is not flat enough, you may need to carve a small section out of the top or tack the bowl down so the arrangement stays secure.)

But the idea here is to NOT carve it, so try to find the flattest pumpkin possible so the arrangement sits level.

It’s also important to have the small dish under the floral foam so it catches the water and doesn’t rot the pumpkin. Plus that dish also helps anchor the floral foam in place.

started tucking in the ivy first on this pumpkin centerpiece - designing it first with spiller

I love using these floral spheres with dishes because they are just the right size for this dining table centerpiece idea.

If you are cutting flowers and branches from the garden, look for flowers with different sizes and textures that create the autumn color palette you want in the arrangement.

And be sure to grab some beautiful foliage plants too!

As an aside, I’m not a fan of garden mums for this dining table centerpiece idea because they don’t last as long and dry out more quickly.

The fresh-cut chrysanthemums work well that you’d find at the market or florist, but don’t use the ones that you decorate with on the front porch for this one.

Now that we are done foraging for flowers and greens, here’s how to make this gorgeous dining table centerpiece.

Tucking in fresh cut celosia, snapdragons,and ivy from the garden to make a pumpkin centerpiece for the dining table

Thriller, Filler, and Spiller Method of Design

Whenever I make a centerpiece or container garden, I use the thriller, filler, and spiller method of design.

Thriller plants trail over the edges. Filler plants fill in the flower arrangement. And thriller plants add height and drama. (For my best flower arranging tips, check out this post.)

But here’s how to make this gorgeous dining table centerpiece.

  • Soak the floral foam so it’s moist and add it to the dish.
  • Set the dish on top of the pumpkin. If your pumpkin is not flat, you’ll need to carve a little in so the dish sits level and the arrangement does not topple over.
  • Start creating a layer of greenery using ivy, eucalyptus, ferns, or something with a similar look. You want the greens to help conceal the floral foam and dish. So make your cuts using sharp garden snips accordingly.
  • Cover the bottom and tuck some in to create some height and filler.
  • Next tuck in your flowers. I prefer starting with larger focal point-type blooms and then adding smaller flowers to fill the arrangement.
  • Water and feed the arrangement.

And that’s it!

The fresh flowers and pumpkin dining table centerpiece is coming along. Filling it with celosia, ivy, zinnias, snapdragons, dahlias and boxwood from the garden

How to Keep the Fresh Flowers Longer

This arrangement should last about a week or two depending on the types of flowers you use and how well you care for them. But follow these simple tips to help your fresh-cut flowers to last longer.

But in general, keep the flower arrangement hydrated. And if you want them to last even longer, swap out any fading blooms and tuck in some fresh ones.

What do you think? I love how it turned out!

And I can’t wait to show you how incredible it looks on my Friendsgiving table that I’m sharing next week!

Stay tuned!

flowers and pumpkin centerpiece for the dining table that is set on a small bistro table on the front porch
fresh flowers and heirloom pumpkin centerpiece idea for the dining table with zinnias, dahlias, sedum autumn joy, ivy, celosia and boxwood
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5 from 1 vote

Flowers and Pumpkins Centerpiece Idea for the Dining Table

Looking for ways to decorate a table for fall, Friendsgiving, or Thanksgiving gatherings? Wait until you see how to make this GORGEOUS flowers and pumpkin centerpiece idea! But the best part? There's no carving involved!
Prep Time20 minutes
Active Time20 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Calories:
Cost: $100

Equipment

Materials

Instructions

  • Soak the floral foam so it’s moist and add to the dish.
    Small dish with floral foam to set on top of the pumpkin to make a centerpiece with fresh cut flowers from the garden
  • Set the dish on top of the pumpkin.
    set floral foam and dish on top of pumpkin before starting centerpiece.
  • Start creating a layer of greenery using ivy, eucalyptus, ferns or something with a similar look.
    started tucking in the ivy first on this pumpkin centerpiece - designing it first with spiller
  • Cover the bottom and tuck some in to create some height and filler.
    Tucking in fresh cut celosia, snapdragons,and ivy from the garden to make a pumpkin centerpiece for the dining table
  • Next tuck in your flowers. I prefer starting with larger focal point-type blooms and then adding smaller flowers to fill the arrangement.
    The fresh flowers and pumpkin dining table centerpiece is coming along. Filling it with celosia, ivy, zinnias, snapdragons, dahlias and boxwood from the garden
  • Water and feed the arrangement.
    fresh flowers and pumpkin centerpiece idea for the dining table using celosia, dahlias, zinnias, ivy, boxwood and snapdragons from the garden

Notes

The cost of this project depends on how many of the supplies you have access too. It can cost as little as $15-20 depending on what’s available to you.

More About Making Pumpin Centerpieces with Flowers

Have you ever made a pumpkin centerpiece with flowers before? Will you try one this year? If you’ve made them before, do you have any tips you’d like to share? I would love to know more in the comments below.

And don’t miss joining my Gardening DIY and Decorating Community on Facebook for more chatter. And follow along there and on Instagram as well. There are behind-the-scenes daily things that I share on Instagram that don’t make it to the blog. Would love to see you there too!

If you prefer to binge-watch Bricks ’n Blooms on TV, we go more in-depth with tours and posts on my YouTube channel. Would love to hang out with you there!

And… If you’re catching up on blog posts you may have missed, be sure to sign-up to get my newest posts via email to stay up to date with everything that’s happening here on the blog and more.

crystal chandelier above french country farmhouse table set for friendsgiving with fresh flowers and pumpkin dining table centerpie and candles

Looking for More Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving Ideas

If you are looking for more Thanksgiving Day ideas and inspiration, check out these posts.

From hosting gifts to table decor, food, and menu ideas, I’ve got you covered.

dining table set for friensgiving brunch with candles, pumpkins, greenery and beautiful centerpiece with fresh flowers and pumpkins
preorder my book the bricks 'n blooms guide to a beautiful and easy care flower garden

Garden Supplies I Use

I’m often asked about the garden supplies and tools that I use most. From pruners to deer repellents, here are some of my favorites in no particular order.

close up of caramel creme coreopsis
Click here to shop my vintage farmhouse with close up of the front porch with flowers

Friendsgiving Ideas & Inspiration

Next up on the Friendsgiving Blog Hop is my good friend, Jen from Tatertots and Jello. She’s got a beautiful home and some incredible ideas for an amazing Friendsgiving party.

Eleanor Rose Home | LeCultivateur | Green Valley Gable | Truemans Treasures

Pasha is Home | Living Large in a Small House | Cloches & Lavender | Open Doors Open Hearts

Robyn’s French Nest | White & Woodgrain | Bricks ‘n Blooms | Tatertots & Jello

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pumpkin centerpieces with fresh fall flowers on rustic elegant farmhouse table
How to make a no carve pumpkin centerpiece for the dining table
Potager garden in fall with outdoor dining table decorated for an adult halloween party with cornstalks, pumpkins, witches hats and flowers

Elegant Adult Halloween Party Ideas for a Spooktacular Celebration

Looking for some fun Halloween party ideas? Wait until you see these sophisticated adult Halloween party ideas. Halloween isn’t just for kids anymore! It’s the perfect occasion for adults to embrace their inner child while adding a touch of sophistication to the spooky festivities. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween gathering for friends or family, here…
Read More Elegant Adult Halloween Party Ideas for a Spooktacular Celebration
potager garden in fall with table decorated for an adult halloween party.

Bricks ‘n Blooms Weekly 150

Hi there and Happy Fall! I hope you had a great week! Random Things Happening Behind the Scenes at Bricks ‘n Blooms What a week it was! New Jersey had amazing weather all week long. The temperatures were more mild so I was able to start decorating the porches and gardens for fall. I added…
Read More Bricks ‘n Blooms Weekly 150

Thank you so much for following along.

Enjoy a beautiful day! xo

Stacy Ling

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stacy ling cutting dahlias in her garden

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Home and Garden Blogger Stacy Ling cutting zinnia flowers in her cottage garden with wood picket fence in front of garden shed

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24 Comments

  1. This is beautiful, Stacy! I love how you made the arrangement on top of the pumpkin instead of in it. I had a Thanksgiving disaster with one of those arrangements in the pumpkin years ago….

    1. Thank you Molly and I did too! One year I hosted and hollowed out the pumpkin and added the flowers and I left it on the table when we went away for the weekend. I came home to a huge stinky mess!

  2. Stacy your pumpkin centerpiece is STUNNING!!! It’s so perfect for a Friendsgiving or Thanksgiving table. Pinned!!!

  3. 5 stars
    Hi stacy!

    Wow! Your pumpkin arrangement is amazing! And I love that it is a no carve pumpkin. I’ve made pumpkin vase arrangements but I love the tips you shared. I definitely need to make another one and use your tips. Absolutely amazing! I pinned it to my Thanksgiving board to share 🙂

    xoox

  4. Hi Stacy –
    As usual, your floral arrangement is gorgeous. I agree with you that fall is such a great time to get some amazing flowers and fillers from your yard. I didn’t know about that floral tray. I will be stocking up.

    1. Thanks Lynn! They are fabulous – you can buy them separate but I found these already together which makes it so much easier!