Portland’s community gardens have long been a cornerstone of the city’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Since 1975, these gardens have provided residents with opportunities to cultivate their own food, connect with neighbors, and contribute to local food security.
A Network of Green Spaces
Managed by Portland Parks & Recreation, the Community Gardens Program oversees 60 gardens spread throughout the city. These spaces are developed and operated by dedicated volunteers and staff, offering a variety of activities that cater to gardeners of all skill levels. The program’s mission is to ensure that every Portland household has access to a community garden within one mile of their residence. Learn more about the Community Gardens Program.
Educational Opportunities
Beyond providing gardening plots, these spaces serve as educational hubs. The Learning Gardens Laboratory, a 2-acre educational community garden located in Southeast Portland, offers garden-based education to learners of all ages. Their programs include K-12 field trips, professional development for educators, and hands-on gardening experiences for community members. Discover more about the Learning Gardens Laboratory.
Addressing Food Insecurity
Community gardens also play a vital role in addressing food insecurity. The ‘Produce for People’ program, initiated in 1995, encourages gardeners to donate a portion of their harvest to local food pantries. In the 2025 gardening season alone, this initiative donated over 27,000 pounds of fresh produce to more than 22 different food pantries. Find out how to get involved with Produce for People.
Inclusive Spaces
Efforts have been made to ensure these gardens are inclusive and accessible. For instance, the Knott Community Garden, established in 2021, was developed to serve families living along the 122nd Avenue and 102nd Avenue corridors, areas identified as needing increased community garden access. Read more about the Knott Community Garden.
Getting Involved
For those interested in joining a community garden, the process is straightforward. Prospective gardeners can request a plot through the Community Gardens Program. Additionally, volunteer opportunities abound, from garden maintenance to educational programming. Explore how to get involved.
Portland’s community gardens are more than just plots of land; they are vibrant spaces where residents come together to grow food, share knowledge, and build a stronger, more connected community.