Natural dyes in the garden.

Starting a journey with natural dyes can feel overwhelming! This post shares an overview of some easy to find and grow dye plants to help you on your way! This list is not complete by any means, however it does contain details of some of the easier to work with dye plants. This list is relevant to the UK, remember not to pick flowers without the owners permission and if foraging, make sure you do so responsibly by only taking what you need.

Calendula calendula officinalis

Fresh flowers produce a range of colours from yellows to greens and even pinks! The flowers can be dried but results will be paler. Different fabric types will also yield different results.

Daffodil narcissus species

Enjoy cut daffodils on the kitchen table, when they begin to wilt they are perfect for the dye pot. The flower is used and it doesn’t dry but will produce lemon yellows on cotton and bright full bodied yellows on wool.

Elderberries sambucus species

Fresh berries are crushed to release pigment, light lavenders through to deep purples and even greens can be achieved with the addition of alkali or iron.

Yellow Cosmos cosmos sulphureus

The flowers are used fresh, but can also be dried, to create soft yellows through to a touch of orange, the addition of iron can produce greens and browns.

Dyers Chamomile anthemis tinctoria

Beautiful strong bright yellows come from the flowers, which also dry well. The addition of iron will create moody khaki green tones. The stalks and leaves can be used to create soft greens.

Coreopsis coreopsis tinctoria

Dark yellows and deep oranges come from the flower, which can be dried and used at a later date.

Goldenrod solidago species

Bright and clear yellows and greens can be achieved when using fresh plant tops. Dry when they flowers are open for best results.

French Marigold tagetes species

The whole plant except the root can be used to create a dye bath, depending on variety a range of colours can be achieved from yellows, oranges and greens. The flowers dry well once opened.

Safflower carthamus tinctorius

Flowers produce yellow and greens when processed in the traditional way of soaking in water. A range of pinks can be achieved through a more detailed process.

Weld reseda luteola

Gentle yellows through to subtle browns can be achieved using the plant tops once the flowers have opened. Cut long stalks if drying for later use.

Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria

Bright clear yellows accompanied by a sweet scent. Use the plant tops fresh for best results.

Oak Galls

Also known as oak apples, these abnormal growths are created by the gall wasp - ensure the larvae have vacated through the little holes before using. Crush the galls and soak in water, a dark brown verging on black dye can be created.

Acorns

Collect acorns once they have fallen to the ground. Simmer the acorns whole (they absorb the water and swell). Subtle tans, warm browns and almost black can be achieved.

There are lots more dye plants to explore but this list should be a good starting point for any beginners.

Happy dyeing!

Zowie x

The dye garden in full bloom.