Volunteer Spotlight: Michael Whitlinger

By Greta Engel

Phipps is well-known for our beautiful gardens, seasonal flower shows, pioneering sustainability initiatives, informative educational programs and community outreach. None of our work, however, would be possible without the knowledge and dedication of our volunteers. In this series of profiles, we meet some of the people who give their time to make Phipps possible.

Five years ago, volunteer Michael Whitlinger underwent major back surgery, causing him to retire from his career as a florist. Wanting to stay busy after his surgery, he began to research volunteer opportunities. On a visit to Phipps this past year, Michael was sharing his passion for plants with some of the staff who encouraged him to get in contact with Volunteer Coordinator, Deb Knorr. Michael says that “joining the volunteers at Phipps has been one of the best decisions that I have made since retirement.”

Michael learned to garden from his mother and grandmother at a very young age. He specifically loves English gardens and gardens found at great estates. Before volunteering at Phipps, Michael worked as a florist, gaining forty years of experience. During his career, he specialized in large events, creating beautiful floral arrangements for things like weddings and holiday parties. Michael finds great joy in nature and loves to camp and hike whenever he has the opportunity!

To describe a typical day of volunteering at the Conservatory, Michael says, “I have had the great pleasure of getting a spot under the guidance of Display Horticulturist Everett Chronowski in the Tropical Forest.”  He starts around 7 a.m. by watering various sections throughout the Tropical Forest Conservatory. Michael then prunes and cleans plants and during flower show installs, he helps with planting. This past holiday season, Michael volunteered at the Gifts and Greens Sale where he was able to connect with a new group of volunteers and staff.

Michael’s favorite part of volunteering has been meeting new people that share his love, appreciation and respect for gardening. “I am impressed with how welcoming staff are and how kindly they treats the volunteers. Even though I bring years of experience to this volunteer role, I am excited to continue learning and expanding my knowledge through the programs that Phipps provides,” says Michael. If you see Michael on your next visit to Phipps, you’re sure to learn something new!