Thanksgiving is one of our most important family gatherings, and is a holiday steeped in American traditions. One such tradition is the Horn of Plenty or Cornucopia. It is a symbol that festively features our nation's rich harvest.

Let your holiday table reflect the treasures of Mother Nature by creating this abundant Cornucopia Centerpiece. 

 

Materials 

 

• One 14- to 16-inch long Cornucopia basket 

• One 12-inch long x 5-inch wide x 1-inch high container 

• 1 brick of floral foam 

• Floral clippers and knife 

• Narrow gauge wire and wood-pics 

• 3 of the following- mini corn bunches, miniature pumpkins or persimmons 

• 15 stems of autumn foliage (this time of year try seeded eucalyptus, maple and oak leaves and leather fern, add red pepper berries and other berries if desired 

• 3 to 5 stems of the following flowers- orange or yellow lilies, orange, yellow or burgundy chrysanthemums, white, yellow or orange roses 

 

Directions

 

1. Soak the floral foam in water for 30 minutes. 

2. Cut the floral foam to fit the long and low container. The top of the foam should come up approximately 1-inch above the top of the long and low container. 

3. Insert one end of the long and low container inside the Cornucopia basket. At least half of the long and low container should extend outside the basket. 

4. Begin inserting short pieces (approximately 4- to 6-inches in length) of greenery on the sides and top of the long and low container. 

5. Now use wire and/or wood-pics to insert the fruit and miniature corn into the long and low container. These can go on the sides and top of the centerpiece. 

6. Cut the flowers between 4- and 6-inches in length and fill in between the greenery, corn and fruits.