HOMESTEAD HOW-TO
Beets are fast-growing vegetables known for both their edible roots and greens. Beyond their culinary uses, they produce a strong, vibrant dye, yielding rich shades of red and pink. Beets thrive in well-draining soil with regular watering, making them an easy addition to a natural dye garden.
Coreopsis is a bright prairie wildflower that adds cheerful yellows and warm oranges to dye baths. It grows well in sunny locations and prefers protection from frost.
Blackberries grow abundantly in backyards, parks, and even urban spaces. These late-summer fruits are delicious when eaten fresh or preserved in jams and jellies.
Blueberries are edible fruits with stunning seasonal foliage. These hardy shrubs provide multiple benefits: delicate spring flowers, summer berries, and fiery autumn leaves.
Used coffee grounds offer a sustainable and readily available dye source, producing warm, earthy browns. By repurposing something as common as coffee waste, you can create a rich, natural dye while reducing kitchen waste.
Hibiscus flowers yield a beautiful range of pink and red dyes. Whether fresh or dried, the petals infuse fibers with vibrant hues. Hibiscus tea is also a refreshing beverage, making it a dual-purpose plant for dyeing and drinking.