The Real Story Behind Decorative Gourds

How Did Everyone’s Favorite Oddity Come to Grace Fall Table Centerpieces?

As the harvest season is upon us and decorations announce abundance, the odd, bumpy character in everyone’s cornucopia might raise some interesting questions. How did decorative gourds become such an essential, cherished part of Fall décor? Where do they come from?

Tempting as it is to look at decorative gourds as a fad, they have a rich and scientifically complex history. Gourds have been in fashion in the United States since at least 1937 when the first chapter of the American Gourd Society was founded. Today, there are 24 of these chapters throughout the country. And while this near-100 year tradition is impressive, scientists have found evidence to suggest that humans have been selectively breeding gourds for around 8.000 years. Hard-rinded, bitter gourds are technically fruits and had such novel uses in earlier days as water-carrying vessels, spoons, and other implements, and in some cases even musical instruments.

If you’re looking to complement your gourd festoons with some exciting stems and diverse blooms, look no further. Allen’s Flower Market carries an enormous variety of fall-themed floral arrangements that elevate the standards for table settings and bouquets. Our gourd-friendly Wind and Fall gift comes complete with a bottle of red wine, while the stately Autumn Breeze is an ideal table accouterment for a gourd-filled spread. Tall-stemmed or short, broad and lush or spare and geometric, our selection of Fall Flowers offers something for every festive occasion.

At Allen’s Flower Market, we offer fast, easy delivery to accommodate your schedule. With locations across Southern California and service that only a family-owned business can promise, it comes as no surprise that we’ve been consistently voted Best Florist in Long Beach since 2011. If you want to see and smell our arrangements in person, stop by our floral design stores in Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Fernando Valley or Sunland. You can reach us at 877.981.9499 or have a look at our wide variety of flowers and floral arrangements online: https://www.allensflowermarket.com/flowers-for-all-occasions/