Certification
Anyone may apply to take the Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) examination whether a member or not. Upon passing the examination and providing proof of the required 2000 hours worked in the industry, the new CPH receives a badge to wear at work and copies of the Association’s monthly magazine, B&B. Those certified express satisfaction with the added recognition that the CPH achievement represents.
WSNLA educational seminars cover a wide range of topics useful to the professional horticulturist. WNSLA alone, or in cooperation with other allied groups presents seminars on a wide variety of topics pertinent to the horticulture professional. WSNLA helps various State departments spread messages to the gardening public via its members. For example, WSNLA worked with the WA Department of Natural Resources on a Fire Wise Landscape curriculum for both the east and west sides of the State. To locate a CPH near you, click here.
TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Become a Certified Professional Horticulturist.
Let the world know you're qualified! Step to the top of your profession as a Certified Professional Horticulturist. Whether you are a landscape designer, garden supplier, wholesaler, retailer, sales person, educator or writer, this WSNLA sponsored program benefits your career by providing the means to improve your knowledge and skills. As a CPH, you'll grow in your profession and be recognized for your achievement. The gardening public and the industry need the expertise that you are well qualified to share.
CPH means Horticultural Mastery.
You know your business and continue to learn. CPH status signifies a professional level of education and experience in horticulture, plus a commitment to refresh your knowledge and keep current through ongoing training.
CPH means Credibility.
You provide expert, informed service. Gardeners consult you as an authoritative resource. The public wants credible, quality advice on all aspects of gardening and landscaping, and CPH certification assures them of your knowledge and expertise.
CPH means Professionalism.
You bring value to the industry. Employers hire, promote and value the quality of CPH employees for their broad understanding of horticulture. Your certification makes you more marketable, confers respect, offers opportunity, and raises standards throughout the industry.
CPH means Excellence.
CPH identifies you with the industry mark of distinction. Your CPH status is acknowledged with a logo badge, on-site signage at retail locations, and listing on the WSNLA website. The CPH program is widely promoted through trade shows and public events, press releases and media coverage, and in WSNLA’s monthly magazine and other publications.
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The Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) program educates, accesses and promotes Washington horticultural professionals with industry certification by the Washington State Nursery and Landscape Association (WSNLA). Certification depends upon agreement to abide by rules and regulations governing Washington Certified Professional Horticulturalists. |
How to become a CPH and maintain your certification.
The Certified Professional Horticulturist program is designed for the mastery of basic horticulture and continuing education to build on your knowledge and skills. As a CPH, you’ll join an outstanding group of peers who’ve chosen to enhance their stature and attain this high level of professional excellence. Simply follow these five steps:
Step 1: Study the material
Sustainable Gardening is the primary horticultural text covering basics like botany, plant propagation, entomology and more. It is purchased through WSU cooperative extension. WSNLA provides a supplementary packet covering basic landscaping, plant nomenclature and identification. Click here for details about study materials.
Step 2: Pass the test
A written exam tests your skills and knowledge as a horticultural professional based on study materials and practical applications. The test is administered twice yearly by the WSNLA Certification Board, in March and October.
Step 3: Demonstrate work experience
You must prove the equivalent of one year of work experience (2000 hours) with a licensed nursery, landscape contractor or WSNLA-approved business or institution.
Step 4: Fill out the paper work
After passing the exam, file for certification and provide work experience statements from your employer. Students are allowed two years to obtain necessary work experience and receive a Letter of Qualification until they qualify for full CPH certification. Congratulations, you are now a CPH!
Step 5: Maintain your CPH certification
As a CPH, your continued education is required to maintain and update your credentials and skills. There is an annual renewal fee due each year. Every three years, your certification is renewed upon completion of 15 Continuing Education Credits. It’s easy: every hour spent equals one credit. Fifteen hours in three years is all it takes. WSNLA produces a variety of qualifying seminars each year. Credit is also given for seminars from relevant professional organizations or accredited institutions and teaching horticulture. You’ll receive complete information about maintaining certification when you enter the program.
For more information contact Vickie Wilson, WSNLA Education Director, at 800.672.7711 or vickie@wsnla.org.
To purchase study materials, click here.
To view upcoming seminars, click here.
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