From Pallets to Peppers: CLI Columbus’ Garden Project Grows with Collaboration

From shipping crates to squash—see how a DIY garden at CLI Columbus is growing fresh produce, team spirit, and a greener workplace.

At CLI Columbus, a grassroots effort has blossomed into something much more than rows of tomatoes and squash—it’s become a symbol of teamwork, pride, and sustainability in action.

What started as a creative upcycling project using wooden shipping crates is now a thriving community garden, grown and maintained by team members across the facility. The benefits of the garden stretch far beyond the produce. Community gardens have been shown to boost morale, relieve stress, and even improve workplace collaboration.

Plant Manager Bill Holiman echoed the sentiment: “The garden has brought a fresh energy to our team. It’s amazing to see how something as simple as planting together has encouraged collaboration, ownership, and even a bit of healthy competition. This is exactly the kind of grassroots initiative that makes CLI a great place to work.”

Led by Material Manager and woodworking hobbyist Tyler Adams, the garden project took shape in April when CLI provided compost, mulch, and soil—sourced locally—for less than $200.

“It’s been great to see people from different departments coming together—watering plants during breaks, sharing gardening tips, or just admiring how things are growing.” said Tyler Adams initiative leader.”

Employees planted a variety of crops, including cucumbers, tomatoes, pole beans, banana peppers, squash, watermelon, and an especially productive crop of jalapeños. Built from repurposed crates, the raised beds reflect CLI’s dedication to reducing waste and making practical use of available materials.

Across industries, community gardens are increasingly recognized as a way to strengthen workplace culture, encourage wellness, and promote sustainable values. At CLI Columbus, the garden has created an inviting space for employees to take a break from the warehouse floor, connect with one another, and experience the tangible rewards of their effort—both in vegetables and in shared purpose.

As CLI continues to explore ways to blend sustainability with employee engagement, the Columbus team’s community garden serves as a model for what’s possible when innovation and collaboration take root.

Ready to harvest your next opportunity? Join our team and grow with a company that values innovation, people, and purpose.