The next CPP Exam will be held during FALL TOUR.

Eligible applicants need to submit a completed application, documentation of nursery employment and the appropriate fees to the MNLA Executive Director by the published deadline. MNLA will notify each applicant of the time and location of the exam. The certification tests are generally given twice a year, in January at the annual Montana Green Expo and in August or September at the MNLA annual Fall Tour. The exam consists of a plant identification test and a written test. The exam is based on the Certification Manual and on practical information gained from employment in the industry, and on identification of the correct genus, species, common name, and cultivar (if appropriate) for each plant.

The ID portion of the exam is based upon plants covered in Choosing Trees and Shrubs for Montana Landscapes, by George Evans and Alan Epps, as well as lists of Montana perennials and woody plants. These publications and lists are included in the manual. The second portion of the exam is a 200 question written exam of the principles and practices of virtually all aspects of the nursery industry. A passing grade is 75% for both parts of the exam. Bring at least two sharpened pencils to take the exam. We also recommend that you bring several sheets of scratch paper.

Please see Education & Certification web page for details on eligibility and renewal as well as a number of additional forms and how to order your CPP Manual (a highly re commended book for preparing for the exam(s).