Goldenrod: of the Solidago genus, meaning “to heal” or “to make whole.”

Truly a fitting attribution for this diverse, charismatic, and resilient plant. With over 100 species nationwide, upwards of 30 goldenrod species call Pennsylvania home, filling niches from cool, shady forests to hot, sunny meadows. While different species bloom across the growing season, most people recognize goldenrod during the transition from summer to fall, when open fields are swept with a giddy shock of golden yellow: a final flush of warm-season splendor fueling pollinators as they prepare for winter. 

Beyond its aethetic beauty and wildlife value, goldenrod can provide a bounty for people, too. In this class, we’ll dig into the many ways that interacting with goldenrod–especially the “weediest” species–can bring healing and wholeness to our lives:

Foraging & Medicine-Making

In the first part of this class, we’ll become acquainted with goldenrod as a source of food, wellbeing, and ecological understanding. We’ll encounter plants in the field to practice identification, species differentiation, ethical harvest, and preparing medicine. In the transition between this portion of class and the second half, we will enjoy lunch along with freshly-brewed goldenrod tea. 

Botanical Dyeing

For the second part of this class, we’ll be joined by botanical dye artist Chelsea Thompson of earthencolor to transform gathered goldenrod into wearable colors. We’ll cover the foundations of using local blooms to dye natural fibers, practicing two methods–shibori and bundle dyeing–on two of your own clothing or fabric items that you bring to class! 

You’ll leave not just with newly-colored clothes and a brightened appreciation for Solidago, but with inspiration and skills for incorporating this generous plant into your life. 

Goldenrod dye swatches. Image provided by Chelsea Thompson. 

Program Schedule:

10:30am - 12:30pm | Goldenrod in the field: foraging, ecology, medicine

12:30-1:15pm | Lunch Break

1:15-3pm | Crafting with goldrenrod: botanical dyes

What to Bring

• Refillable water bottle
• Packed lunch and snacks as preferred
• Pad and pencil for notetaking and sketching
• Basket for take-home harvest (optional)
• Box, bucket, bag, or other carrying item for taking home dyed fabrics (in case they are not completely dry) 
• Two articles of clothing or cloth suitable for natural dyeing (optional)
  • RESTRICTIONS: Items must be of a reasonable size and lightness and composed of natural fibers (cotton, linen, silk, etc.). If you are unsure about whether an item will be suitable, you can reach out to Chelsea Thompson at chelsea@earthencolor.com.
    • Examples of items to consider bringing: t-shirts, bandanas, socks, pillow-cases, tea towels 
    • Examples of items NOT to bring: anything bulky like jeans or jackets, sheets, or anything made of synthetic fibers.
  • Each student is limited to two items only. We'll cover two dye techniques: bundle dyeing and shibori, or "tie dye." 
  • When registering, you'll have the option to add on a cotton bandana and/or bamboo socks to dye as alternatives to bringing your own items. Add-on orders are available up to two weeks before the class, so make sure to register by Sunday, September 14th if you would like to purchase dye items instead of supplying your own. 

Program Notes: 

Environment: This class will take place primarily outdoors. Please check the weather in advance and dress accordingly. Be prepared for walking in an exposed meadow environment with possible muddy conditions. 

Arrival: Parking takes place in the field above the farmhouse. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so we can begin each class on time. More details about parking will be communicated in a reminder email days before the program. 

Audience: Children under 12 may attend for free if accompanied by a registering adult. Please note that 1) adults with children are still limited to two dye items, and 2) this program is primarily designed for adult engagement. Attendees between 13 and 17 must be registered separately and accompanied by a registering adult. 

Cost: The standard cost for this program is $##/person. Sliding scale options are available to increase accessibility. If you would prefer to purchase dye items instead of bringing your own, you'll be able to add on a white cotton bandana and/or a pair of socks when registering. NOTE that these add-on purchases will be only available up to September 14th. 

Cancellation: All programs are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances including inclement weather. Participants will receive an email in the days preceding the program for any changes or cancellations. You can review our current Cancellation and Refund Policy here. 

About the Instructors:

Andrew Leahy

Growing up in a rural town called Sweet Valley, just south of Ricketts Glen, Andrew spent his life fostering a love for the PA wilds. He attended Muhlenberg College in Allentown and majored in English Literature and Music Composition while exploring regional ecology, slow food, composting, gardening, and foraging in the spaces between. This eventually led him to the staff of the Horn Farm Center, where, as Community Engagement Coordinator, he organizes educational opportunities, coordinates volunteers, runs social media, blogs, and assists with development and outreach projects. 

Andrew is an avid forager and student of wild spaces, interested in rekindling ways of living on the landscape that are place-sourced and mutually nuturing. In 2023, he had the privilege of enriching his experience by taking the Horn Farm Center's Land Steward Training Program. Beyond the Horn Farm, Andrew leads a book club for the Lancaster Composting Co-Ops, volunteers as a land steward with the Lancaster Conservancy, and spends Saturdays selling produce at Green Circle Organics in Lancaster Central Market.

Chelsea Thompson

Chelsea Thompson is a textile artist focusing on the use of plant dyes as a way to explore and strengthen a relationship with the natural world. Growing up on a horse farm has lead her to be endlessly inspired by the slow process and nuances of nature. She has fibers degree from Savannah College of Art and Design, where a creative vision was born through the project Earthencolor. With the use of botanical dyes, Earthencolor aims to convey a story through bespoke garments, accessories, and home goods. As a part of an ethos in using natural dyes, there is a belief that the colors processed from plants are synonymous to a life harmonious with the outdoors; each color yielded is unique in a life and story of its own, continuous of its former physical state.

Learn more about Chelsea's work at earthencolor.com. She can also be found on Instagram at @_earthencolor_