Hi! I’m Samantha Darling and I love to help people build beautiful garden sanctuaries that nourish both the land and the people who tend it—spaces that feed you, support local wildlife, and grow richer year after year.

Dirt Rich Gardening was created from a deep love of growing edible food and working with native plants. My goal is to make gardening feel both accessible and meaningful by showing how simple it can be to build a thriving ecosystem right outside your door.

At the heart of my approach is a belief that all great gardens start with healthy soil. Soil is a living foundation, and when it’s supported properly, everything above it becomes stronger. With a Master’s degree in Environmental Sustainability, I focus much of my work on amending and rebuilding soil so it can support resilient, productive, and ecologically balanced gardens.

Native plants play a key role in this process. When woven into edible gardens, native species improve soil structure, attract beneficial insects and pollinators, reduce pest pressure, and create natural balance. This support system allows fruits, vegetables, and herbs to thrive with less effort, fewer inputs, and greater long-term success.

Most of all, I believe gardening should be grounding, joyful, and rewarding. My favorite place to be is with my hands in the dirt—helping people reconnect with the land and create gardens that are both beautiful and abundant.

I can’t wait to help you bring your garden dreams to life!