The landscape industry is full of growth, lifetime learning opportunities, and the occasional mystery shrub — you also already also know that plants, people and the profession can also be… full of surprises. That’s exactly why mentoring has become such a big deal to me. I didn’t get here alone — I grew because people ahead of me took the time to share their wisdom, their mistakes, and occasionally a coffee break. Mentoring is the compost of career growth: not always glamorous, sometimes a little messy, but absolutely essential for helping new talent take root. If you’re curious about how people actually build a career in the green world, mentoring is your shortcut to the good stuff.
Why the Landscape Industry Needs You (Yes, You)
The landscape industry is full of wildly passionate humans — designers, growers, installers, plant nerds, soil whisperers, and people who can somehow keep a fern alive in a windowless office. What we all have in common is that someone once opened a door for us. Now it’s our turn to hold that door open for YOU: new grads, career-changers, and anyone who looks at a plant and feels a tiny spark of joy. Mentoring isn’t just about teaching skills; it’s about building a community where people feel seen, supported, and connected. If you’re exploring your next step, this industry has room for your curiosity, your creativity, and your weirdly specific love of moss.
Why I Keep Showing Up for Mentoring
I mentor because it genuinely fills my cup — and not just my favorite reusable stainless-steel one with dirty handprints. Helping someone else grow sharpens my own skills, keeps me curious, and reminds me why I fell in love with this industry in the first place. Every conversation with a new designer, plant lover, or career-switcher gives me fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. Personally, it means being part of someone’s “aha!” moment, watching confidence take root, and knowing I played a small role in someone else’s journey. Professionally, it keeps me connected, grounded, and always learning.
A Heartfelt Thank-You to My Clients
I also want to take a moment to say a genuine thank you to my incredible clients who graciously allow me to bring mentees along to meetings, site visits, and garden walk-throughs. Your willingness to share your time, your homes, and your beautiful outdoor spaces with someone who’s just beginning their journey in this industry means more than you know. You help create real-world learning moments that no classroom or textbook could ever replicate. Your openness not only supports the next generation of landscape professionals but also strengthens the spirit of community that makes this work so meaningful.
Ready to Grow With Us?
If you’re looking to learn more about the landscape world, meet incredible people, or find someone who can help you make the right connections, consider this your official invitation. Reach out to me via email or a phone call, tell me your story and ask questions. Whether you’re a new graduate, a plant-obsessed hobbyist, or someone pivoting from a totally different career. Start by exploring mentorship opportunities, connecting with industry professionals, or discovering career pathways. Your next chapter might just start with a single conversation.
And for those already in the industry — if you’e ever thought about becoming a mentor yourself, I’d love to connect. Helping others grow is one of the most rewarding parts of this work, and I’m always excited to support anyone who wants to learn how to share their experience, time, and passion. If you’re curious about stepping into that role, reach out and let’s talk about how you can become part of a growing network of mentors.
The landscape rule is “right plant, right place,” and mentoring is no different — except instead of sunlight and soil, we’re matching passion and potential. Much less digging involved!
I’m here to help!
Kirsten Lints, C.P.H.
kirsten@gardensALIVEdesign.com
425.318.2971
