CNLP Program - Updated for 2023 

As a Certified Nursery & Landscape Professional (CNLP) in New York State, you'll join an elite group of green industry professionals dedicated to continuing their education and growing as professionals. The CNLP program advances the professional standards of the nursery, landscape and garden center industries. The designation recognizes individuals demonstrating a high level of competence in the principles and practices of this industry.

CNLP Quick Links

2023 Review Sessions & Examination Dates

CNLP Examination Application

CNLP Recertification Form
Please Note: Those whose certification expired on 12/31/22 OR lapsed during the pandemic have until 3/31/23 to submit their paperwork to the NYSNLA Office. We are processing recertifications in weekly batches.

Credits Tracker Upgrade - Re-Launch on March 31, 2023
With the program fully underway across the state, we are now working on an upgrade to the CNLP Profiles & CE Tracker system. This upgrade will address any connectivity issues, as well as make it easier for users to access, track and upload their continuing education credits. The upgrade will be activated on Friday, March 31, 2023.

All CNLP'ers will receive a personalized e-message with instructions on how to fully utilize the system. We will also hold a webinar to do a walk-through of the system and to answer your questions. We thank everyone for their patience as we conclude this tech upgrade--so that the CNLP Program can truly meet your needs.   

In the meantime...
Need Assistance? Need to Check Your Credits? Have Questions?

If you have any questions about the CNLP Program, getting registered for the exam, or verifying your credits for re-certification, please contact NYSNLA at [email protected] or (518) 580-4063. We will respond to inquiries within 1 business day.

Need Credits for Your Current Recertification Period? 
We are offering a special discount to CNLP holders. You can take the on-demand webinars from the Virtual Education Series for a 50% discount. To take a webinar, please go to our On-Demand Webinar Store.  CNLP can request a special discount code by sending a request to the NYSNLA Office at [email protected].  

Also…the New CNLP Manual has been released!
The New CNLP Manual was released in 2022. Each chapter has been revised and updated with current information, photos and links. The new manual is an electronic version that is accessible by logging-in through the CNLP login on the NYSNLA website. The advantage of this electronic version is that it can be updated at any point and will have clickable links to outside resources. 

Attention Outside Organizations/Agencies Seeking CNLP Credits

Qualified nonprofit organizations and agencies can request CNLP credits for courses, workshops, and interactive programs that benefit the Green Industry and nursery/landscape professionals in New York State.  We now have a simplified online form that, when completed, will provide the Professional Development/CNLP Committee with the information it needs to review and approve the request. CLICK HERE to apply for CNLP Credits for your program. 

Who Qualifies as a CNLP?

Candidates who:

  • Have graduated from a recognized two- or four-year college with a degree in a horticulture-related field, or
  • Have completed a minimum of three years of experience in the horticulture industry

Once they've met those qualifications, they may register for the certification exam.

To retain certification, CNLPs must complete a recertification exam every three years or submit preapproved education and training credits proving their ongoing education and commitment to the field. The program is exclusively administered by the New York State Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.

Click here to learn more about becoming a CNLP.

If you are already a CNLP, click here to learn about recertifying and becoming a Senior or Lifetime CNLP.

Why Seek a CNLP for Your Project?

When you make the decision to invest in landscaping and enhancing the beauty of your home, you can feel good about working with a professional who has achieved the prestigious Certified Nursery & Landscape Professional designation.

Members of the nursery and landscape industry and Cornell University experts designed the program. CNLPs train in a wide range of subjects from plant pests and diseases to weeds and weed control, and much more.

Because of their intense training, you can be confident that the CNLP is there to make your yard a garden paradise without the worry, leaving you more time to enjoy your outdoor space!

Click here to learn more about the benefits of working with a CNLP.