How it Works

The OCNT examinations are given twice a year:  once in January in conjunction with CENTS, and once in August at various locations throughout the state. The exams are based on material in the OCNT Core, Garden Center, Grower and Landscape Training Manuals, as well as practical application of that material.

All the manuals contain basic, as well as specific information, and were written by educators and specialists in the green industry.  The manuals also contain additional publications such as: Landscape Plants for Ohio, Perennial Plants for Ohio and Common Pests, Diseases & Disorders of Ornamental Trees & Shrubs. The manuals can be used as a text for group learning sessions within your company.

You must pass the Core and 1 Specialty to be granted status as an OCNT. Upon completion the individual is presented with a certificate recognizing his or her accomplishment.  In addition, OCNTs are presented with a pin to further help consumers identify them as professionals.  Certification status is granted to individuals only. The Ohio Certified Nursery Technician (OCNT) designation may not be used to imply that a business or firm is certified.

Purpose

The purpose of the OCNT Program is threefold:  to improve the skill and knowledge of green industry employees; to have this improvement and professional qualifications recognized in the eyes of the public as well as within the landscape and nursery industry; and to provide a means of self-improvement and increased worth to the employee.

Administration

The OCNT program is sponsored by the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc. Responsibility for administering the program rests on the Certification Committee, which consists of ONLA members. The examinations are prepared, conducted and corrected by, or under the direction of, the Certification Committee.

The OCNT program is not in any way connected with any agency of the government, but is solely and exclusively a voluntary program sponsored by The Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, Inc.