Groovy Pumpkin Planter

Elegant displays of ornately carved pumpkins are great, but I like to have a little fun with my pumpkins now and then! Whether you decide to make just one or a whole family of them, these cheery pumpkin planters will really brighten up your yard or patio for fall. One great thing about this project is that the funnest part—making the eyes and hair out of different plants—doesn’t involve sharp knives like most Jack-O-Lantern crafts, so after an adult has carved the initial holes, young children can get involved with the rest of the project. Kid-friendly Halloween decorating, welcome to the garden! This groovy pumpkin planter has all the silly features that make kids smile: crazy hair, buggy eyes, and a crooked grin. And, as an added bonus, it’s a great way to introduce children to the magic of gardening.

Making a pumpkin planter with a face is as simple as carving the pumpkin, filling it with soil, and planting it. See how to make Jack-o-Planterns here. I like using succulents for eyes, and you can feel free to get really creative with the plants you use for the hair—see how crazy you can make it!

Worried they will turn mushy and moldy before the big day? Check out how to make pumpkin planters last here.