Maryland Certified Professional Horticulturist Program (CPH)History In 1985 the Maryland Nurserymen’s Association began its Certified Professional Horticulturist program, a voluntary program for those desiring to demonstrate proficiency in horticulture. After meeting a combination of educational and work experiences, and studying a comprehensive manual that is the heart of the program, an applicant must pass a rigorous examination in order to be certified. ObjectivesThe purpose of the CPH Program is as follows:
EligibilityIn order to apply for certification, an industry member must meet the following eligibility requirements:
To view the CPH program brochure, select here. ProceduresIn order to become a Certified Professional Horticulturist, one must:
Certification is valid for three years, after which it may be renewed for an additional three years for a minimal fee. Certification examination will be based on the Certified Professional Horticulturist Training Manual of the Maryland Nursery and Landscape Association and/or other approved study materials. The Required Body of KnowledgeManaging or working with a nursery, landscape, or garden center business requires in-depth knowledge of a wide variety of subjects. For CPH certification purposes, after the eligibility requirements have been met, the candidate need only demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the CPH Board, that the candidate knows and can apply the essentials of the nursery, landscape, and garden center industries. The examination questions will be based on such essentials as are included in the Training Manual. AdministrationThe Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) program is sponsored by the Maryland Nursery, Landscape and Greenhouse Association. Responsibility for administering the CPH program rests with the CPH Board. The Board is comprised of four appointed members from MNLGA, representing nursery, landscape, and garden center industries, one member from the University of Maryland Department of Horticulture, one member from the Maryland State Department of Agriculture, the MNLGA President, and the Executive Director. CPH examinations are prepared, conducted, and graded by or under the direction of the CPH Certification Board. Use of CPH DesignationAs a Maryland Certified Professional Horticulturist, individuals may use the CPH designation with his/her name on his/her business letterhead and on his/her business card. Certification is for individuals only. The CPH designation may not be used to imply that a business or firm is accredited. |