In the heart of Indianapolis, Greene Thumb Landscape is more than a landscaping business. It’s a legacy nurtured under the leadership of Kirsten Davenport-Norwood and her husband, Darius Norwood, the CEO. Their unique approach blends skilled service, social impact, and deep community ties, cultivating not just green lawns but also a lasting impact.
Kirsten’s father, Desert Storm Army veteran Ron Davenport, founded Greene Thumb Landscape in 1991. After returning from military service, Ron worked for TruGreen as a chemical technician before venturing out on his own. “He was looking for ways to make a meaningful impact in the community,” Kirsten says. “Starting his own landscaping business allowed him to do just that.”
Ron successfully ran the company for over two decades until a tragic workplace accident in 2012 took his life. His wife took over the business, managing operations for 10 more years until her passing in 2022. Today Kirsten and Darius are carrying the torch, honoring the foundation Ron built while infusing new energy and vision into the company.
“We’re a legacy company,” Kirsten says. “But we’re also evolving to meet today’s needs with innovation, intention and a heart for people.”
Greene Thumb operates across three service models: landscape maintenance, enhancements and new construction, and snow and ice management. Maintenance includes routine care like mowing, trimming and fertilization. Enhancements may involve mulching, tree installation or perennial updates. Their new construction work has them partnering with parks departments on large-scale developments like Grassy Creek and Tarkington Park. In the winter their snow plows roll out to keep IPS schools and other clients safe and accessible.
Their client base spans residential and commercial properties, but their ethos sets Greene Thumb apart. “We’re not just here to mow lawns,” Darius says. “We’re reimagining what landscaping can be.” This includes treating landscaping as a skilled trade. “People often think of landscaping as a summer job,” Kirsten says “But this work requires deep knowledge – soil chemistry, irrigation systems, seasonal cycles and compliance with state regulations, like those from the Office of the Indiana State Chemist. It’s science and art combined.”
At the core of Greene Thumb’s mission is a commitment to supporting veterans inspired by Ron’s own military service. In partnership with Helping Veterans And Families (HVAF), the company now offers paid, 10-week internships to veterans transitioning into civilian life or at risk of homelessness.
“We’re only the second company to partner with HVAF in this capacity,” Kirsten says. “It’s something of which we’re deeply proud.” The program offers veterans soft-skills training before they start their internships, with HVAF and Greene Thumb sharing the costs.
Kirsten is quick to clarify that this is not a charitable gesture; it’s a wise business decision. “Veterans bring discipline, pride and leadership,” says says. “They’re accustomed to structure and working in tough conditions. Those traits translate incredibly well in our field.” Half of Greene Thumb’s leadership team are veterans, further embedding that company culture of strength and service.
Beyond their veteran focus, Greene Thumb champions inclusion in all forms. Kirsten’s sister, who has Down syndrome, is a part owner of the company. Team members include individuals on the autism spectrum and others from underrepresented backgrounds.
“I believe I may be the only black woman leading a commercial landscape firm of this size in Indiana,” Kirsten says. “We’re intentional about building a team that reflects the diversity of our community. It strengthens us.”
That same intentionality extends to their workplace culture. “When we bring in interns or new team members, they’re not just here to do a job,” Kirsten says. “They’re part of the team, part of the outings and part of the leadership conversations.”
For Kirsten and Darius, the legacy isn’t just about their family; it’s about community investment. “When you hire Greene Thumb, you’re not just hiring a landscaping company,” Kirsten says. “You’re helping support veterans, create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities and continue a multigenerational legacy of service.”
While many may start a landscaping business, few operate with the kind of heart, heritage and purpose as Greene Thumb.
“We’re not focused on the ‘what’ – we’re focused on the ‘why,’” Kirsten says. “And our ‘why’ is deeply rooted in giving back, growing strong and leaving something better than we found it.”
