From her base in Davidson, North Carolina, Sara Rubens is helping Charlotte and Lake Norman residents discover the possibilities in their own backyards. Her company, Seed to Sanctuary, provides turn-key kitchen garden designs and installations, backed by personalized coaching that takes the guesswork out of growing food at home. What sets the company apart is its hands-on approach—offering one-on-one, on-site guidance that transforms novice gardeners into confident growers.

Like many during the pandemic, Rubens found herself spending more time in her backyard. The former corporate professional started experimenting with growing her own food, and soon neighbors were asking for advice. She noticed that while online tutorials and DIY kits were plentiful, many gardeners struggled without hands-on guidance. This insight led her to develop Seed to Sanctuary's signature approach: personalized coaching that adapts to each client's space and schedule.
"What started as a simple hobby quickly turned into a passion," commented Rubens. "The more I learned, the more fun it became, and I couldn't help but share my excitement with anyone who would listen. So many people became interested in gardening, especially during and after COVID, as they recognized the benefits of a garden-centric life. I specialize in designing and building beautiful, bespoke food-scape sanctuaries that my clients can enjoy year-round."
The company's approach starts with an initial consultation and custom garden plan, but it's the year-long coaching program that sets Seed to Sanctuary apart. Clients receive monthly in-home visits combined with ongoing virtual support, creating a step-by-step learning experience that turns beginners into skilled home gardeners. "Most people just need someone to show them the ropes," says Rubens. "Once they see how it's done, they're amazed at what they can grow."

The timing couldn't be better for Rubens' approach. With grocery prices climbing and more Charlotte families looking to put their yards to productive use, the demand for practical gardening knowledge has soared. Many of her clients come to her after failed attempts at following YouTube tutorials or general gardening guides. "They're eager to grow food at home, but every yard and climate is different," Rubens explains. "What works in California won't necessarily work here in North Carolina."
Recent studies show more Charlotte homeowners are making the most of limited outdoor space, from small yards to patios. Through her popular blog, which features edible landscaping ideas for any setting, Rubens shares practical tips for creating productive gardens—whether that means raised beds, container gardens, or creative uses of vertical space. Her posts guide readers through the basics of soil health, pest control, and seasonal planting that lead to successful harvests.
For Rubens' clients, the benefits extend beyond fresh produce. Her designs blend practical growing spaces with thoughtful landscaping, creating backyard retreats that naturally become part of daily life. Each garden is designed to complement its surroundings while maximizing growing potential from spring through winter.
The success of Rubens' hands-on coaching model in Charlotte has led to expansion plans across the Lake Norman area for 2025. As more homeowners look to start their own gardens, her approach addresses a clear need in the region for practical, personalized garden education.
For more information on Seed to Sanctuary’s services, visit seedtosanctuary.com.
About Seed to Sanctuary
Seed to Sanctuary is a kitchen garden design company founded in Davidson, North Carolina, by Sara Rubens. Specializing in personalized garden design, turn-key installation, and coaching, the company’s high-touch, expert-led approach empowers homeowners to create thriving, sustainable gardens with confidence. By blending practical gardening techniques with mindful living principles, Seed to Sanctuary helps clients transform their outdoor spaces into productive, restorative sanctuaries.
Source: As Seen On
Release ID: 1308581