What is FNGLA and Why it is Important
I recently spent a day helping with a FNGLA event and reflected on how this organization helps the green industry in our state. The FNGLA brings professionalism to the landscape industry, continued training and education, and promotes the future of the industry.
FNGLA stands for Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (www.fngla.org). It is the state’s oldest nursery and landscape association forming in 1952. The association works to better the landscape industry and offers over 6 different certifications including FNGLA Certified Landscape Designer (FCLD). Study, devotion, & knowledge is required to pass the necessary exams. This includes physical demonstration of your abilities in regards to the specific certification. These professional designations help to raise the bar on the industry and add clarity to the public on who a professional really is.
All designations require continuing education units (CEUs) to maintain the certification. This requires members to grow and learn by attending educational seminars and training related to the landscape industry. This also helps members to remain connected to the industry and aware of any new efficiencies created.
The horticulture industry generates billions in revenue and directly employs hundreds of thousands in Florida. The FNGLA strives to communicate the importance of the environmental horticulture industry in our state. Through the commitment of its members to learn and be good stewards, this creates a group of professionals devoted to protecting our state’s resources. Opportunities and jobs are also created for today’s youth and new members to the green industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About FNGLA Certification
What does FNGLA stand for?
FNGLA stands for the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, a statewide trade association representing professionals in Florida’s nursery and landscape industry.
What is FNGLA certification?
FNGLA certification provides nursery and landscape industry professionals with the opportunity to earn recognized professional credentials by demonstrating knowledge in best practices, horticulture, plant identification, landscape design, installation techniques, and industry standards. Learn more about the FNGLA certification programs at fngla.org.
What types of certifications does FNGLA offer?
FNGLA offers multiple professional certifications including Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP), Certified Landscape Technician (FCLT), Certified Landscape Maintenance Technician (FCLMT), and Florida Certified Landscape Designer (FCLD), among others.
Does FNGLA certification require continuing education?
Yes. FNGLA-certified professionals are required to complete Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain certification and stay current with evolving industry practices and standards.
Why does FNGLA certification matter when choosing a landscape professional?
FNGLA certification serves as an industry-recognized benchmark indicating that a professional has met established credentialing standards and participates in ongoing education, which can help homeowners make informed decisions.
As you explore what FNGLA certification means and why it matters, you can see how these professional standards help raise the bar across Florida’s landscape and horticulture industry — connecting rigorous training, ongoing education, and a shared commitment to industry excellence. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking confidence in your landscape professional or a practitioner considering your own credentials, understanding and valuing these benchmarks makes real difference in long-term performance, reliability, and trust.
For homeowners evaluating landscape professionals, FNGLA certification provides important context beyond design aesthetics alone. It reflects a commitment to continuing education, ethical practices, and environmental responsibility — all of which directly influence the long-term success of a landscape. If you’re considering a landscape project and want guidance grounded in professional standards and regional experience, a private consultation with BLG Environmental Services can help clarify next steps and expectations before any design decisions are made.
Robert Burns, FCLD
FNGLA Certified Landscape Designer
