DIY Thanksgiving Table Centerpieces Using Fall Plants

September 30, 2024                     A Fun and Creative Guide by Scott’s Nursery Ltd.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to celebrate the beauty of autumn by bringing nature indoors. From vibrant chrysanthemums to rustic pumpkins and gourds, the season offers endless inspiration for creating your own DIY table centerpieces. Whether you're a beginner or an expert gardener, crafting a stunning display with seasonal plants is a fun and easy way to elevate your Thanksgiving dinner table.

 

At Scott’s Nursery, we have everything you need to make your centerpiece a showstopper. From our wide selection of fall mums and gourds to decorative pumpkins and purple asters, this guide will show you how to turn these simple plants into beautiful arrangements that are sure to impress your guests.

Best Fall Plants for a Thanksgiving Centerpiece

Fall plants bring a rich palette of colors and textures, perfect for a vibrant centerpiece. Here are some of the best options you can find at Scott's Nursery:

Chrysanthemums (Mums): 

Available in various colors and pot sizes (8" to 15"), mums are a fall staple. Their dense, bushy blooms add both volume and color to any arrangement. Try combining orange or red mums with softer purples for a dynamic contrast.

Pumpkins (Pie and Carving): 

Whether you opt for the smaller pie pumpkins or larger carving varieties, pumpkins make a fantastic base for any centerpiece. You can even hollow one out to use as a vase for your flowers​.

Gourds (Large and Small): 

These come in a variety of unique shapes and colors. Scatter small gourds along the table for added texture, or use larger ones as standalone pieces to draw attention.

Cut Flower Kale and Purple Asters:

These lesser-known plants are perfect for adding depth and unusual textures. The ornamental kale's rosette shape pairs beautifully with the delicate blooms of asters, creating a striking focal point​.

Step-by-Step: 
Creating a Simple DIY Centerpiece

For gardeners of any experience level, crafting a beautiful centerpiece can be both fun and rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide for making an easy, yet stunning, arrangement using fall plants available at Scott’s Nursery.

Materials You'll Need:

  • A small to medium-sized pie pumpkin (hollowed out)
  • Floral foam
  • Chrysanthemums (8" to 15" pots available)
  • Cut flower kale or purple asters
  • Small gourds for decoration
  • Mini straw bales (6" x 3" x 1.5")
  • Optional: Candles, fall leaves, or tiny Halloween-themed figurines

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Pumpkin Vase
    Start by hollowing out a pie pumpkin, removing all seeds and pulp. Insert a soaked piece of floral foam into the cavity to keep the flowers hydrated. This foam will act as the foundation to hold your flowers in place.
  • Add Mums for Volume
    Cut the stems of the chrysanthemums to a manageable length and insert them into the floral foam. Spread them evenly around the foam for a full and vibrant display. Use a mix of colors, such as orange and red, to give your arrangement a rich, autumnal feel.
  • Incorporate Kale and Asters for Texture
    Next, add cut flower kale and purple asters to the arrangement. These plants introduce unique textures and colors, adding depth to your centerpiece. The ornamental kale’s lush rosettes are a perfect complement to the vibrant mums.
  • Finish with Decorative Touches
    Surround the base of the pumpkin with small gourds, mini straw bales, or votive candles for added flair. For a whimsical touch, include tiny Halloween figurines or scatter fall leaves around the arrangement.

Creative Ideas: 
Using Pumpkins, Gourds, and Mums

If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of creative ways to take your DIY centerpiece to the next level. Here are some ideas for both beginner and expert gardeners:

  • Pumpkin Vases with a Twist: Instead of using traditional vases, try hollowing out a large pumpkin and placing a smaller vase or jar inside to hold water for fresh flowers like mums or kale. This ensures your arrangement stays fresh without the need for floral foam.
  • Gourd Candle Holders: Use small gourds as candle holders by cutting a shallow hole at the top to fit a votive candle. This adds a warm, cozy feel to your table, and the natural colors of the gourds pair beautifully with your fall plants.
  • Layered Centerpieces: Group pumpkins and gourds of varying sizes together on a wooden tray or slice of wood. Add in layers of fall leaves and sprigs of berries for a rustic, overflowing look​.
  • Mini Straw Bales for Height: Use mini straw bales to elevate smaller gourds or pumpkins within the centerpiece. This adds dimension and makes the arrangement feel more dynamic.

Adding Seasonal Decor for Extra Flair

Once your centerpiece is built, it’s time to add those little extras that will make it pop. Scott’s Nursery offers a variety of seasonal decor to help enhance your Thanksgiving arrangement:

  • Mini Straw Bales: These mini bales (available in different sizes) can be used to lift small pumpkins or gourds, creating levels within the arrangement. By placing a gourd or small pumpkin on top of a bale, you add height and dimension to the centerpiece.
  • Votive Candles and Lanterns: Incorporating small votive candles between the gourds or in candle holders made from mini pumpkins can bring a warm, inviting glow to your table. Lanterns surrounded by gourds and autumn leaves also add a cozy vibe to your centerpiece.
  • Fall Leaves and Berries: Scatter dried or faux fall leaves around the base of your arrangement. Add in some faux berries or even a few sprigs of wheat to complete the harvest look.

These decorative touches bring a rustic charm to your centerpiece and make it feel more abundant, perfect for the Thanksgiving table.

Keeping Your Centerpiece Fresh Through Thanksgiving

To ensure your DIY centerpiece stays fresh throughout the season, follow these simple tips:

  • Use Floral Foam or Water-Filled Containers: If you’re using cut flowers like mums, asters, or kale, make sure to insert them into floral foam that has been soaked in water. This will keep your flowers hydrated for days. Alternatively, place small water-filled containers inside hollowed-out pumpkins or gourds to keep the flowers fresh​.
  • Store in a Cool Area: When not in use, store your centerpiece in a cool place. If possible, place it outside at night or in a cool garage to help extend the life of the flowers and plants​.
  • Mist the Flowers: Lightly mist your flowers with water every day or two to keep them looking fresh and vibrant.

With these tips, your beautiful Thanksgiving centerpiece will last through the holiday and bring seasonal joy to your home.

Creating your own DIY Thanksgiving centerpiece is not only a fun and creative project but also a great way to showcase the natural beauty of the fall season. With the variety of seasonal plants and decor available at Scott’s Nursery, you have everything you need to make a stunning centerpiece that will impress your guests.

We encourage you to share your creations with us by tagging Scott’s Nursery on social media or stopping by the store to pick up all the items you need for your next DIY project.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Scott’s Nursery!

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