What is FCHP?

The FNGLA Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP) program is the industry's only standard for measuring horticulture knowledge on everything from plant and pest identification to landscape management. The certification is designed for those working in the horticulture industry or studying to enter the field.

• Targets nursery, greenhouse, landscape, retail garden center, and state, county and municipal government employees
• Recognized as equivalent to the Florida-Friendly^TM Best Management Practices for the Green Industries (GI-BMP) certificate program. FCHPs can submit their request online for certificate. The GI-BMP certificate is the document necessary to obtain the Limited Urban Commercial Fertilizer Applicator Certification required by law to apply fertilizer for hire.
• Although recommended, there is no prior training required for professionals.
• Included on the CAPE Industry Certification Funding List for high schools. Articulates to 6 credits for A.S. and A.A.S. degrees in Florida colleges and to 3 college credits at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College in Georgia.
• Valid for a three-year period. - Requires 15 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) to maintain this certification.

Manual

Not just your standard-issue course textbook, FNGLA’s FCHP manual - The Horticulture Professional 2nd Edition textbook - is an excellent resource and informational tool for troubleshooting and answering questions involving proper plant use, plant problems and landscape management.

• Cost - $120 for FNGLA members, $170 for nonmembers

The Horticulture Professional 2nd Edition

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Training

• Training is available at a variety of locations across the state. For more information, check out FNGLA's event calendar.
• Online training is also available at: www.magnoliagrex.com

Study Help

• Practice tests for the FCHP exam are available for purchase to assist you in measuring your knowledge prior to taking the FCHP exam. 
• FNGLA's plant identification site contains flashcards to help you prepare to take the Plant ID portion of your FNGLA certification exam. The site is located at: www.fnglaplantid.com

Testing

The FCHP exam is a written, mulitple choice exam delivered online. Prior registration is required. To apply, professionals will complete this online form. Students are registered by their instructors directly through FNGLA's Certification Department.  Student proctor information and required agreements may be found here. 

About the FCHP Exam

Candidates must pass a comprehensive four-part online written exam to demonstrate knowledge about plant identification, disease and insect control, plant biology and landscape management.

Each section must be passed with a minimum 70% in order to earn the FCHP certification. Sections include:

• Plant ID
• Horticulture Practices
• Safety
• General Horticulture (Open Book)

Exam Fees

$90 for FNGLA members and $135 for nonmembers.