Bee Host
Welcome to the Radical Root podcast, hosted by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Growing Gardens, your go-to resource for radical gardening and food system advocacy. I’m Bea, the Development Manager here at Growing Gardens, and I’ll be your host for today’s episode.
This month, we’re diving into creative approaches to radical gardening—and here’s the best part: you don’t even have to garden to make a real impact! Whether you’re passionate about food system equity or just love the idea of community engagement, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference.
Today, I’m excited to welcome Rima Green, our Lettuce Grow Program Director, to chat about our Community Garden Consultation Initiative. But first, Rima, could you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
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Rima Guest
Hi! My pronouns are she/her. I’m the Director of the Lettuce Grow program here at Growing Gardens. We primarily work with incarcerated individuals in Oregon’s state and federal prison systems, offering gardening programs as a way to cultivate knowledge, wellness, and opportunity.
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Bee Host
Thanks, Rima! I always love hearing the unique paths that bring people to Growing Gardens. Could you share a bit about what led you here?
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Rima Guest
It’s been a wild journey. I grew up in foster care, then returned to my tribe as a kid. Along the way, I got into trouble, spending time in both the juvenile and adult correctional systems. After I got out, I decided to turn my life around and moved from a small town in Arizona to New York City to pursue two degrees in computer science. After 30 years in tech, I retired early to return to my first love: gardening—and working with people in the prison system.
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Bee Host
That’s an incredible story. Now, let’s shift gears to the Community Garden Consultation Initiative. What inspired this project, and how did it get started?
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Rima Guest
It all started with questions. Whether we were tabling at events or chatting with folks, we found people constantly asking for gardening advice—everything from "Why does my lettuce look bad?" to pest management tips. So, we thought, why not create a formal consultation service? We set up an appointment system on our website, added a small database, and launched it. Now, people can book 30-45 minute sessions with us, where we provide solutions and follow-up notes. We suggest a donation, but the focus is really on making gardening support accessible.
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Bee Host
I love how simple yet impactful the idea is. It’s such a great way to engage with the community. What have been some of the most unexpected or rewarding outcomes?
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Rima Guest
It’s been amazing! I’ve talked to people from all over the world—from Singapore to India—and even connected with a neighbor just down the street! It’s taught me that gardening truly builds relationships, whether through solving a problem or sharing tips. I once had a lady send me pictures of her greens, so excited they survived after thinking she’d killed them all.
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Bee Host
That’s incredible. It’s a reminder of how gardening can connect us, no matter the distance. What advice would you give to someone wanting to start a similar project in their own neighborhood?
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Rima Guest
Keep it simple! You don’t need a big production—just offer your knowledge. Put up a flyer at your local store or post on social media. And be prepared: not every question will have an easy answer. It’s okay to say, “I don’t know, but I’ll find out.” The key is to enjoy the process and engage with people.
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Bee Host
That’s such great advice. Gardening really isn’t just about plants—it’s about community, curiosity, and connection.
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Rima Guest
Exactly! I always tell people: Don’t panic—it’s just a garden. If one plant fails, try again. And don’t make it competitive; every garden is unique. Throw in some flowers, meet your neighbors, and have fun with it. Gardening should be joyful, not stressful.
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Bee Host
Beautifully said! Thank you so much, Rima, for sharing your insights and stories.
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Rima Guest
It was my pleasure. If anyone wants to learn more or get involved, visit growing-gardens.org. We’d love to connect and help you start your own gardening journey.
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Bee Host
Thank you, Rima! And thank you to everyone listening. If you want to explore more about our programs, including Lettuce Grow and the Community Garden Consultation Initiative, head to our website. While you’re there, download your free Radical Gardening Resource Guide for practical steps toward building a greener future.
Thanks for tuning in to the Radical Root podcast. See you next time, and until then—just get out there and start growing! 🌱
