There are two steps to become certified:
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Step 1: Prerequisite Training
Complete the prerequisite online training courses. These courses consist of short videos, online activities and/or readings, and a course test. Each course is $20, or use the package link below to receive a discount. If you hold another professional landscape certification, some of the courses are waived.
Complete six 1-hour online courses
- Introduction to the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Legislation, Codes, and Your Community
- Maintenance with Florida-Friendly Landscaping™
- Florida-Friendly Turfgrass: Selection and Best Management Practices
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Recognition Program
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Design Considerations
Or, use one of the eligible certifications below to reduce the online course requirement.
GI-BMP Training Certificate
If you have successfully completed the GI-BMP training and received a training certificate, three additional courses are required:
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Legislation, Codes, and Your Community
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Recognition Program
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Design Considerations
FNGLA Certification
If you have an active, qualifying FNGLA certification such as Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP), Certified Landscape Designer (FCLD), or Certified Landscape Contractor (FCLC), only two courses are required:
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Legislation, Codes, and Your Community
- Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Recognition Program
Florida Water StarSM Accredited Professional
If you have an active Florida Water Star Accredited Professional designation, only two courses are required:
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Step 2: Field Module
The 3- to 4-hour Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Certified Professional Field Module consists of both classroom and field training, and an exam. The classroom training will review FFL principles and topics covered in the online prerequisite courses. The field training will be a site visit to review site conditions, identify what is/is not FFL, identify invasive plants and weeds, and discuss recommended management practices.
- The cost of the course is $50 which will be paid to the UF/IFAS Extension FFL certification trainer.
- Applicant will need to provide their own transportation to/from the site.
- After completing the field module, participants must take and pass a test and agree to abide by the FFLCP Code of Ethics.
If you have any questions, email ffc@ifas.ufl.edu