Flowering plant in a garden
Fiber farmer, artist and natural dye grower, Eileen Flanagan, will lead a workshop on growing and using plants for natural dyeing on September 19 at the UMaine Gardens at Tidewater Farm in Falmouth.

UMaine Extension offers workshop on growing plants for natural dyeing

August 25, 2026 Cumberland, Garden and Yard, Horticulture, In-Person, News

Falmouth, Maine — University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host a workshop exploring the colorful world of dye gardening on Saturday, September 19 from 2–4 p.m. at the UMaine Gardens at Tidewater Farm, 200 Presumpscot Point Road in Falmouth.

Growing plants for natural dyes is a rewarding way to combine gardening, creativity and traditional craft while discovering the surprising range of colors that can be produced. In this interactive class led by fiber farmer, artist and natural dye grower Eileen Flanagan, participants will learn about popular dye plants, growing requirements and how to create a diverse natural color palette using flowers, leaves and other plant materials. The workshop will also explore the basics of the natural dyeing process, along with the history and creative possibilities of botanical dyes. Participants will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience creating a botanically printed silk scarf using fresh dye plants and flowers. All materials will be provided. 

The registration fee is $50 and advance registration is required. More information and registration are available on the Natural Dye Garden webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Pamela Hargest at pamela.hargest@maine.edu or 207.949.4524.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, Extension has supported UMaine’s land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety, and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H, which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.