A Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) is an individual who has proven their mastery of basic horticulture, has extensive professional experience, and is committed to continuing education to build their knowledge and skills. They are trained in broader horticulture, with a focus on Pacific Northwest specific plant material and best practices. They are a diverse group who offer a variety of services throughout the landscape industry and are qualified to produce landscape construction documents in most jurisdictions across Washington State.
The ecoPRO Certified Sustainable Landscape Professional (EPC) program trains landscape professionals in a wide variety of sustainable landscape practices. Sustainability in this sense involves protecting soils, water, air quality, and wildlife habitat while conserving energy and sustaining healthy plants. Implementation is custom tailored to site-specific environmental factors and client-specific maintenance needs. Considerations are made for aesthetics, ecological impacts, and economic feasibility.
In practice, this often looks like native and naturalized plant material choices that are accessible at local nurseries, drip irrigation design that reduces trenching, and a reduced need for harmful pesticides which can run-off into nearby water sources. Careful consideration is given to balancing support for local wildlife, conserving water and energy, and enhancing human well-being. A well designed, sustainable landscape can be beautiful, benefit the environment both on a small and large scale, and be less expensive to maintain in the long run.
Washington State Nursery & Landscape Association (WSNLA) provides certification programs and continuing education for both CPH and EPC professionals. Stephanie Fry is CPH and ecoPRO certified and can consult you with a landscape design that you will be proud to call your own.
