Objective
The New York State Certified Nursery Professional shall be the name of this voluntary program.
The purpose of the New York State Certified Nursery Professional Program is to improve the skills and knowl edge of nurserymen, landscape and garden center operators and their employees; and to have this improvement and their professional qualifications recognized in the eyes of the public and within the industry.
To raise and improve the professional standards of the nursery, landscape garden, center industry by giving special recognition to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competence in the principles and practices of the industry. To encourage and promote the education and training of new employees. To encourage and promote continuing education and training of all nursery, landscape and garden center employees, including owners and managers.
To have this high level of attainment recognized by the gardening public as well as within the industry.
The New York State Certified Nursery Professional Program is sanctioned by and sponsored by the New York State Nursery Landscape/Association, Inc.
Any individual who meets the following requirements should be eligible: A graduate from a recognized 2-year or 4-year college with a degree in the Horticulture field or anyone who has completed three years of experience in the Horticultural field.
It is necessary to make out an application, which outlines educational background, employment history and responsibilities. Then obtain letters of reference from previous or current horticultural related employers during the eligibility period.
The registration fee for the exam is $75, which includes the cost of the Certified Nursery Professional Study Manual. Upon receipt of the completed application, supporting information and check, a copy of the Study Manual will be sent. The applicant is advised of the date and location of the next certification exam by the local Certification Director.
The manual is a very valuable publication. It includes information on plant identification and care, insect, dis ease and weed management, soil preparation, fertilization and liming practices, as well as pruning practices and turfgrass culture.
Certified Nursery Professionals who pass the exam are given credentials as proof of certification, as well as the symbols of certification. Those failing the examination shall submit an additional exam application and fee and shall be eligible to take the exam on the next available date.
Revised February 1996.