Our Story
About the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association
EDUCATION
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ADVOCACY
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PROFESSIONAL GROWTH
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INDUSTRY CONNECTION
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
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LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION
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CERTIFICATION
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EDUCATION • ADVOCACY • PROFESSIONAL GROWTH • INDUSTRY CONNECTION • WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT • LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATION • CERTIFICATION •
A Century of Growing Michigan's Green Industry
In 1922, thirteen nurserymen gathered at the Pantlind Hotel in Grand Rapids to form the Michigan Association of Nurserymen, united around a simple idea: that the nursery business deserved fair representation, honest competition, and the public's trust.
In 1990, as the industry grew to include landscape design, turf management, irrigation, and dozens of other specialties, the organization became the Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association, a name built to hold the full breadth of what Michigan's Green Industry had become.
Today, more than 100 years later, MNLA is still the largest and oldest statewide Green Industry trade association in Michigan; united to advocate professionalism, integrity, and growth for the industry that shapes Michigan's landscapes.
What Started It All
MNLA's founding purpose hasn't changed much in a century: represent the industry's interests in state legislation, encourage clean and orderly competition, build trust between Green Industry professionals and the public they serve, and support the horticultural developments that move the industry forward.
What has changed is the scope, from thirteen nurserymen in a Grand Rapids hotel to a statewide association representing over 28 Green Industry segments, from nursery and greenhouse production to landscape design, irrigation, turf management, and beyond.
More Than Landscaping
Most people hear "landscaping" and stop at the mower.
What they don't see: four-year horticulture degrees, state-recognized apprenticeships, statewide certification exams, and careers that span decades. MNLA members have entered the Green Industry from fields as varied as engineering and dental hygiene—and some started their first businesses at just 12 years old—proving that this industry has room for every career path at every stage of life.
That’s the gap MNLA is working to close—ensuring that Michigan recognizes the Green Industry for what it is: skilled, essential, and long overdue for greater recognition.
By the Numbers
Michigan's landscape services and retail sectors generate $4.5 billion annually
Nursery and perennial plant producers contribute another $1.2 billion
Michigan products reach 35 states, Mexico, and Canada
Michigan's nursery industry ranks 4th largest in the nation
Our Mission
United to advocate professionalism, integrity, and growth for Michigan's Green Industry.
MNLA exists to make sure Green Industry professionals across the state have a voice in Lansing, a path to grow their careers, and a community that recognizes the skill behind the work through advocacy, education, and membership built specifically around Michigan's Green Industry.
Questions About Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association
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Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association history dates back to 1922 in Grand Rapids, when the organization was founded as the Michigan Association of Nurserymen. It took its current name in 1990 to reflect the full range of Green Industry segments it represents.
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MNLA advocates for Michigan's Green Industry in Lansing, provides education and certification through programs like CGIP and the Apprenticeship Program, and connects members through networking, recognition, and statewide resources.
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MNLA represents more than 28 segments of Michigan's Green Industry, including nursery and greenhouse production, landscape design and contracting, turf and irrigation management, garden retail, and allied trades.
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MNLA supports Green Industry professionals and member businesses, while Plant Michigan Green helps homeowners find qualified professionals and explore careers in the industry.
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Join as a member to access advocacy updates, education and certification programs, networking opportunities, and more, or contact MNLA directly with questions.
Be Part of the Next Century of Michigan's Green Industry
MNLA has spent over 100 years advocating for the people who grow, build, and maintain Michigan's landscapes. Join a community that understands the skill behind the work, and help shape where the industry goes next.