Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

Clean your pumpkin thoroughly with soap and water and allow it to dry completely.

If you are going to use your succulent arrangement outside, spray the pumpkin with hairspray to ward off any critters in the garden. 

Tip: You don’t need to carve the pumpkin! This makes the process quicker and the pumpkin longer-lasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Succulent Cuttings

You can clip a variety of succulent plants from your garden or purchase some from your local garden center. 

Wash your cuttings and get rid of any dirt.

Allow cuttings to dry for a couple of days to avoid rot on the succulent stems.

Step 3: Attach Moss to the Pumpkin

Apply a layer of moss to the top of the pumpkin using a hot glue gun.

Spray this layer of moss with spray adhesive. 

Add another layer of moss. 

Continue this process until your moss mound is about 4" tall.

Step 4: How to Arrange Your Succulents

Here are a few points to think about when arranging your succulent centerpiece.

Focal Point: Place your largest succulent in the center or off-center as the primary focus.

Vary Heights: Place taller succulents in the center and shorter ones around the edges to create depth and dimension. For extra flair, add trailing plants cascading down the sides of your pumpkin to enhance the overall look.

Mix Colors & Textures: Combine different colors and textures to add visual interest. Play with greens, yellows, reds, and smooth or spiky leaves.

Balance the Arrangement: Spread succulents evenly or go for an asymmetrical, organic look by clustering smaller plants around larger ones.

Use Fillers and Dried Flower Pods: Add extra moss, smaller succulent cuttings, or dried elements like Lotus pods, pinecones, or mushrooms for added texture and interest.

Step 5: How Do You Plant (glue) Succulents on Top of Your Pumpkin?

Create a hole using a pencil in the moss. 

Add hot glue to the stem of the succulent. (The hot glue will not hurt the new plant).

Place the stem of the succulent into the hole in the moss. You can also use floral pins to help hold the succulents in place; just be sure not to pierce the pumpkin.

Repeat this process, arranging them with my tips in step four. (Watch the attached video to see how I did this.) 

Other Creative Finishing Touches 

Try using faux succulents for a more permanent decoration.

Add some fresh curly willow to your pumpkin. This will dry and last months in your succulent planter.

Add other elements like small gourds, ribbons, or dried leaves to personalize your arrangement.

Add some fresh flowers in vials for a special occasion. 

Use mini pumpkins to create small succulent arrangements that your guests can take home as a thoughtful gift.

Add a small cornucopia first, then add small succulents for a Thanksgiving table centerpiece.