FROM : Exploring Community Gardens and Race in The Deep South

Reviewer 1

The logic from the literature review to the findings and discussions is inconsistent. On one hand, while the author discussed the benefits of physical health and mental satisfaction of the participants from the community gardens, there is no discussion of these two dimensions in the findings. On the other hand, the main focus of the finding is on racial/diversity and inclusion, but only two simple sentences touch upon this issue in the literature review. A general suggestion on the re-organization of the literature review part, particularly focusing more on the previous discussion on the racial aspect of community gardens.

1. The original intent was to discuss the full scope of the study in one manuscript. However, that was not possible within the word limit.
2. The manuscript has been significantly revised to focus solely on racial diversity

Some specific comments for the literature review part. The literature review is too brief; it only reported the pros and cons of the community garden to the participants, without providing the reasons for those phenomena. This would lead to the question: what is the uniqueness of setting up a community garden in the community, particularly if those pros and cons seem to be achieved by other means? Also, it would be better if the literature review could focus on those relevant to the findings, which shows how your research helps supplement the current discussion.

• Significant revisions include:
• Theoretical framework grounded in racial capitalism and black geographies, & then
• Incorporating previous findings in that framework All of which focus on racial dynamics and white privilege

Some specific comments for the result. I think it would be better to focus on the findings on the dynamics of community building with the tension of racial diversity and inclusion. Since the research methodologically excluded those institutional-based community gardens, it seemed to overgeneralize the findings about “no one model” and having “multiple visions” in the community gardens in the Deep South. Also, it is questioned whether the models in the Deep South are different from or incomparable to other areas. If not, how can this research add to the existing discussion on community garden research? 

• Results are discussed using the same theoretical framework developed (health-focused, justice-focused) all of which focus on racial dynamics and white privilege in these community-building efforts
• Results are discussed in relation to previous studies (what supports or differs)

Reviewer 2

Introduction

The introduction should be thoroughly written, and it should clearly address the following points:

The topic covered by the research (including thebackground, brief history, and current state of community gardens)

attention on white privilege critiques and liberatory potential

The key argument is to first discuss these nuances in the literature review (theoretical framework and application to community garden) that ends with study’s purpose and gap filled.

• The key argument, the research gap, and the necessity of filling that gap.
• The novelty of the research.
• The research objective(s).

Currently, some of these points are addressed under the literature review and a separate section called “Purpose of the Research.” It would be more appropriate to include them as part of the Introduction.

Introduction has been re-written to quickly summarize the “ideal” and “idealization” of community gardens & focus the readers attention on white privilege critiques and liberatory potential

The key argument is to first discuss these nuances in the literature review (theoretical framework and application to community garden) that ends with study’s purpose and gap filled.

Literature Review:

In the literature review, clearly define the term "community gardens," as it may be an unfamiliar concept in certain regions, particularly in Asia and Africa. Then, review the literature concerning why community gardens exist, their benefits, and any critiques. Following this, review literature on race dynamics in community gardening (if there is no direct literature on this, focus on race dynamics in community activities). Conclude this section by explaining how your research is unique compared to other studies on community gardens.

• Community gardens are defined in the introduction.
• The literature review focuses on developing theoretical framework and applying to community garden context.It ends with research gap (few studies conducting in Deep South)

Methodology:

The methodology section is well-written and provides comprehensive information. However, it would be beneficial to briefly discuss the philosophical foundation or nature of reality that underpins your research. Additionally, consider including a table that highlights key participant details such as participant code/pseudonym, age, race, gender, and years of experience in community gardening.

• The philosophical or theoretical foundation is outlined in the literature review using Racial Capitalism and Black Geographies.Tables 1 & 2 are included.

Results:

In the results section, start with a brief overview before moving into the theme-wise analysis. At the end of the section, provide a short concluding paragraph.

Results are organized by theoretical framework developed in the literature review.

Discussion:

In the discussion section, relate your findings to the literature by highlighting consistencies, inconsistencies, and novel insights that are not reflected in existing research. Afterward, write a concluding paragraph. You should also mention the implications of your study, any limitations, and areas for future research.

Specific findings that are similar to or differ from previous research are discussed in Results.

Discussion summarizes above and includes study limitations and implications for research, policy and practice.