Establishing a foodscape (edible landscape) is part of a practical and hopeful strategy to create the world we want to live in, addressing some of the greatest challenges we face. Our mission is to help people grow in ways that feel accessible, joyful, and deeply rooted in care for themselves, their community, and the earth we share.
Rooted in purpose
We have a lot to gain from re-imagining our outdoor spaces, but if you need more convincing, consider that:
Instead of mowing and maintaining grass, you can create a living landscape that nourishes your family and your community.
Edible and native landscapes sequester carbon, conserve water, and reduce waste, making your yard part of the solution.
Native and well-paired plants are adapted to thrive with less water, fertilizer, and fuss, making gardening manageable for real life.
Native flowers, shrubs, and trees provide food and habitat for bees, butterflies, and birds that keep ecosystems in balance.
Investing once in perennials and smart design can mean years of harvests that provide an added layer of food security and reduce your grocery bill.
Every fruit tree, pollinator plant, or perennial you plant today creates a healthier, more resilient world for generations to come.
At the heart of this work is a commitment to community and lasting change. That’s why 10% of every dollar earned is donated to local food banks, community gardens, and organizations that uplift people, teach essential skills, and cultivate a more hopeful and resilient future.
Hi, I’m Sarah!
I’m a regenerative home gardener, certified permaculture designer, and long-time educator. For me, a sustainable landscape is so much more than what you plant. It’s about how well you flourish alongside it.
My goal is to support the hope we’re all striving for with realistic plans and support that makes meaningful, long-term change feel accessible. That’s why I started PLOT.
What is Permaculture?
In the simplest terms, permaculture is a holistic design approach to sustainable living. The word was first used in the in 1970s by Bill Mollison and David Holmgren as a combination of the words “permanent” and “agriculture”, but the concepts are derived from ancient techniques developed by indigenous people over thousands of years. The approach centers on the relationships between living beings and their environment, establishing systems that are low-maintenance and resilient by replicating patterns and relationships found in natural ecosystems. This allows people to ensure their needs are met by caring for the land that provides for them.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
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I offer four primary services, including:
Consultations (stand-alone or an initial step)
Guided Design Support (individual or group)
Online Office Hours (free!)
I source plants and materials as an optional service for Custom Design and Guided Design clients and write a monthly newsletter in which I share garden planning and tending to-dos, design insights and how-tos, what’s keeping me inspired, and updates on new projects and offerings from PLOT. Interested? Sign up at the bottom of my home page!
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All Custom Design Work and Guided Design Support start with a one-hour consultation. This is time for us to dig into:
Your vision for your outdoor space
Real-life considerations for a sustainable design
Foundational gardening knowledge
A plan for how to move forward
While consultations for all clients are available in a virtual format, those in Indianapolis and nearby communities may opt for an in-person meeting, if they’d like!
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My work starts with people, not plants. I’m a long-time educator and community organizer, so I’m trained to listen closely, meet people where they are, and propose solutions that make sense for each unique person and space.
That said, working with me is collaborative, supportive, and grounded in purpose.
During meetings, I do a lot of:listening
asking thoughtful questions
explaining new concepts
helping clients sort through ideas and options without judgement.
After meetings, I routinely send emails to:
follow-up on unanswered questions
recap action steps
share useful tools and resources.
Ultimately, my approach is based on the goal of not just creating beautiful and functional designs, but helping people feel more knowledgeable, equipped, and confident to grow in sustainable ways!
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I keep things simple. All consultations, custom design work, and guided design support is charged at a rate of $70/hour. A half-hour is half of that - $35.
After a 1-hour consultation, I’ll have the information needed to provide a transparent quote, with no hidden costs, that reflects the time necessary for your particular project.
While the cost of projects can vary significantly, I aim to be the most accessible and affordable option for the quality of work. This mean, the cost is low, compared to most other landscape design services in the area, while still honoring the labor and expertise that goes into each unique design.
When it comes to Guided Design Support, no additional fees are charged for a group, unless additional materials are needed. -
As I am a one person show, I currently do not install the designs I create.
That being said, each custom design provides the guidance you need to install it yourself, including:A 2D design with measurements
A list of plants and materials needed
Soil prep and planting instructions
Growing guides for each plant in your design
Additionally, I’m available for consultation during installation or any phase of your foodscaping journey!
Need to lighten your load? Hand your design to a contractor, and let them take the lead on install! -
Time, really. Here’s the intention of each offering and the time associated with them:
1-hour
$70
Online or in-person (for Indy area folks)
The first step in working together on a Custom or Guided Design or a stand-alone service to explore ideas to enhance your outdoor space or address challenges.
Includes a follow-up email with conversation recap, action steps, and relevant resources
15-minutes
Free
Online only.
To answer questions about PLOT services or something quick to support your garden journey.
Includes no follow-up email
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There are so many reasons! Below is a non-exhaustive list of why someone may schedule a stand-alone consultation. They’re looking for:
A knowledgeable partner to brainstorm ideas to enhance their existing space
Periodic support to guide the installation, care, and/or maintenance of their garden
Direction to address specific challenges or pain-points
Feedback on a design they’ve created to help them refine it before moving forward
Regardless of the reason, my goal is to make sure you feel more equipped and confident navigating your options and next steps, whatever they may be.
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You can reach out any time via the form on my Contact page. I’ll respond as soon as possible, but given I’m a one person show, please allow up to two business days for a response.