Pumpkin succulent centerpieces are the perfect way to celebrate fall while adding some greenery to your home. But how do you keep your mini arrangement looking fresh and extend the life of the succulents long after pumpkin season?
With just a few simple steps, you can maintain your centerpiece and sustainably transition your succulents to a new home once the pumpkin is past its prime.
1. Place It in the Perfect Spot
To keep your succulents happy, treat your pumpkin centerpiece like a houseplant. Choose a location where it can get plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. Succulents love light, but direct sunlight may be too harsh. Also, be sure to avoid placing it near heaters, vents, or anywhere that experiences frequent temperature changes. Extreme conditions can stress both the pumpkin and the plants.
2. Keep It Hydrated—But Not Too Much!
Succulents don’t need much water, and neither does your pumpkin. Mist the succulents lightly once a week to moisten the moss and provide any new roots with a bit of hydration. Avoid overwatering, as letting water pool around the pumpkin’s stem can cause it to rot more quickly. A little moisture goes a long way!
3. Prevent Premature Rotting
To keep your pumpkin from decaying too soon, place it on a small piece of cardboard, about ¼ inch thick. This simple trick allows airflow underneath and helps prevent moisture from building up, which is a great tip for both succulent centerpieces and carved pumpkins alike!
4. What to Do Once Your Pumpkin Is Past Its Prime
Eventually, your pumpkin will start to break down, but that doesn’t mean the life of your succulent arrangement has to end. You can easily transfer the succulents to a more permanent home. Here’s how:
- Cut the top off the pumpkin and place the succulent arrangement (with the moss and any new roots) on top of potting soil in a new container. The pumpkin will gradually continue to decompose, enriching the soil as the succulents take root and continue to grow.
With these easy steps, you can enjoy your pumpkin succulent centerpiece all season long, then give your succulents a fresh start in a new pot for a long-lasting, sustainable display.
Happy fall decorating!
📷Photo taken by Carla Lehman Photography