How I Fell in Love with Pumpkin Topiaries — And Why You Should Too
How I Fell in Love with Pumpkin Topiaries — And Why You Should Too
There’s something magical about autumn, isn’t there?
The air gets crisp, cozy sweaters come out of hiding, and suddenly everything smells like cinnamon and bonfires. And every year, as soon as September rolls in, I find myself itching to bring that autumn feeling into my home.
But this year, I stumbled on a decorating trend that changed everything: pumpkin topiaries.
Yes — stacked pumpkins. But trust me, it’s so much more than that.
What Is a Pumpkin Topiary?
In case you haven’t seen them all over Pinterest (yet), a pumpkin topiary is basically a vertical stack of pumpkins — real or fake — decorated with fall goodies like florals, lights, ribbons, or whatever your heart desires.
Instead of lining up pumpkins on your porch like bowling pins, you create a tower of pumpkins that adds height, drama, and a ton of charm to your fall setup.
And the best part? It’s ridiculously customizable.
Why Everyone’s Obsessed (And Now I Am Too)
1. They Look SO Impressive
Pumpkin topiaries are the kind of decor that stops people in their tracks. I’ve had neighbors ask me where I bought mine — and were shocked when I said I made it in my kitchen.
2. They Work Everywhere
Big porch? Great. Tiny balcony? No problem. Table centerpiece? Absolutely. These babies are vertical, so they don’t eat up precious floor space.
3. They’re a DIYer’s Dream
You can go full rustic farmhouse with orange pumpkins and hay... or modern and chic with all-white pumpkins and eucalyptus. There are no rules.
My Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Own Pumpkin Topiary
If you’re thinking “I’m not crafty”, stop right there. If I can do it, you definitely can too.
What You’ll Need:
- 3 pumpkins in different sizes (real or faux — your choice)
- A sturdy base (like a flower pot or wooden box)
- A dowel or skewer to hold them in place
- Hot glue (optional)
- Decorations: fall leaves, flowers, lights, ribbon, anything you love
Let’s Do This:
- Prep the base: Fill your pot with floral foam or rocks to make it heavy and stable. This is important — you don’t want it tipping over when the wind blows.
- Stack your pumpkins: Start with the biggest pumpkin at the bottom. Use a wooden dowel through the center if you want extra support. Then stack the medium and small ones on top.
- Add the fun stuff: Wrap a ribbon around it, stick in some artificial leaves, wrap some fairy lights — go wild. This is where you let your creativity shine.
- Find the perfect spot: Set it on your porch, near your fireplace, or even as a centerpiece on your dining table.
Styling Ideas for Every Taste
Rustic & Cozy
Orange pumpkins, burlap bows, dried corn husks, and cinnamon sticks. Think country harvest festival.
Modern Minimalist
White pumpkins, eucalyptus sprigs, and gold accents. Simple. Chic. Instagram-ready.
Whimsical & Fun
Painted pumpkins in pastel or candy colors, fairy lights, and cute signs like “Pumpkin Spice Everything”.
Real or Faux Pumpkins?
Real pumpkins: They’re heavier, biodegradable, and look super authentic. But they won’t last more than a few weeks.
Faux pumpkins: They’re lighter, reusable every year, and come in tons of colors. A little more expensive upfront, but worth it in the long run.
Tip: I mix both — real for the bottom, fake for the top. That way I get the weight and the longevity.
Caring for Your Topiary (So It Lasts All Season)
- Keep it shaded: Sunlight will age your pumpkins fast.
- Use sealant spray: Especially on real pumpkins, it slows down rot.
- Secure it from wind: A breeze can knock it over. Tie it down or place it in a protected area.
- Check weekly: Real pumpkins may need replacing. Faux ones? Just dust them off!
Why This Trend Feels So Right
Maybe it’s the creativity. Or the simplicity. Or maybe it’s just how ridiculously satisfying it is to see your own handiwork brighten up your space. Whatever the reason, pumpkin topiaries are here to stay — and honestly, I couldn’t be happier.
They combine everything I love about fall: coziness, color, creativity, and just a little bit of magic.
Final Thoughts — Try It, You’ll Love It
So if you’re looking for a fresh, stylish way to decorate this fall — give pumpkin topiaries a shot. They’re beautiful, surprisingly easy, and make your space feel instantly more festive.
Trust me, once you make one... you’ll be hooked.
And hey — if you try it out, send me a photo or tag me on Instagram. I’d love to see your creation!
Happy Fall Decorating!