Winterbloom

Discovery

Winterbloom founder Phil Thornburg, grew up in the densely populated country of Burundi, Africa where there were few places one could go to be alone. There were some small hiding places, however, along the hills and valleys where he could gain some solace. By arranging rocks, bushes, vines and pieces of wood, he would create a simple sanctuary… a retreat where he could observe the beauty and drama of creation without being noticed. He found that his friends also enjoyed these places.

Development

While pursuing his education at Oregon State University, Phil realized he wanted to create a personalized and private paradise for each of his clients but at the same time be sensitive to the well being of the Earth. At Winterbloom we strongly believe in protecting environments and working to uphold the integrity of our beliefs. We are committed to using sustainable practices. We encourage and support our employees to continue their education in this pursuit of improving and tending to the landscape.

Phil still enjoys providing retreats from the hectic rush that typifies our culture here in the U.S.A., , "Creating private Edens…one home at a time", has become Winterbloom’s motto because it is our desire to special places for family, friends & clients.

The Portland region has a certification program for landscape companies who are practicing methods to reduce the ecological impact on the Earth. It is the Eco-logical business pollution prevention program, also known as Eco-biz. It is a collaborative effort by the cities of Portland, Gresham, and Troutdale, Clackamas County, Metro, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Clean Water Services, and Washington County. Winterbloom Inc. is the first full service landscape company located in Portland as of 2008 to complete the process and become Eco-certified. The designers, installation crew, and gardening division are all following the eco-biz standards. For more information check the eco-logical business program web site at www.ecobiz.org.

Refinement

Winterbloom’s work has been featured in Better Homes & Gardens, Woman's Day Home Remodeling Issue, Garden Ideas & Outdoor Living Magazine, Pool Scaping, Deck Scaping and highlighted in the Oregonian.

Phil has spoken at the Yard, Garden and Patio Show, the Rhododendron Society & the Fuchsia Society and is a regular speaker at Garden Clubs and Master Gardener events.

Phil is also an adjunct faculty member offering courses through Portland Community College, Clackamas Community College, and Oregon State University’s Extension Services program in Design and Horticulture.

Phil is a ‘Lifetime Oregon Certified Nurseryman’ #248

Various Winterbloom employees hold degrees in Agriculture, Horticulture & Landscape Design.

Winterbloom’s installation foremen are licensed with the Oregon Landscape Contractors Board

Various Individual employees are certified as: Arborists, Pesticide Applicators, and Landscape Technicians