Washday Hues 2026

Sparsholt College is excited to be showcasing ‘Washday Hues’ at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show (19-23 May 2026). The garden will delve into the relationship between fabrics and plants, demonstrating the wide range of beautiful and vibrant colours that can be achieved when using natural plant-based dyes.

The design aims to lead visitors through the steps involved in taking colour from plant to pigment, flower to fabric and garden to garment. The eye-catching washing machine signifies the first step of the dyeing process and the garden itself will feature many plants which can be used to produce dyes.

Discover our Horticulture courses with a national reputation for excellence and the incredible industry links that make opportunities like this one possible.

The ‘Washday Hues’ garden will include a giant washing machine along with a a washing line that will hold a variety of clothing items that have been dyed using natural dyes. The aim is to showcase the wide range of beautiful and vibrant colours that can be achieved when using natural dyes. 

ELKA, a weaving and natural dye studio based in Hampshire, have been working with Sparsholt College to share their specialist knowledge on the topic of natural, plant-based dyeing. Part of their support included facilitating a natural dyeing workshop for the learners involved in the RHS Chelsea Flower Show project