Did you know that the UT Horticulture team in the Department of Plant Sciences offers two online certificate programs? The Certified Lawn Care Professional course is an introductory online course that provides the education and skills needed to effectively establish and maintain turfgrasses. This course is entirely online and self-paced and does not count toward pesticide licensure. In addition to the Certified Lawn Care Professional course, we also offer the Certified Landscape Professional introductory online course that teaches you how to effectively establish and maintain landscapes. It is also entirely online and self-paced and does not count toward pesticide licensure. Both courses cost $250.

About the Certified Lawn Care Professional Course

The Certified Lawn Care Professional course was a National Finalist in the Search for Excellence in Consumer and Commercial Horticulture for the National Association of County Agricultural Agents in 2026. Additionally, in a review following completion of the course, participants rated course usefulness as a 4.74 out of 5, with one respondent noting that they “enjoyed the course and found it quite informative despite many years in the landscape industry”.

This course covers many topics including turfgrass identification and selection, soil fertility, weeds of turfgrass, insect pests of turfgrass and much more. The course is taught through videos, written materials, and a quiz and takes approximately 15 hours to complete. The certificate is valid for 2 years and can then be renewed. Register here for the Certified Lawn Care Professional course. 

About the Certified Landscape Professional Course

In a review following completion of the course, participants rated the course overall as 4.75 out of 5, with one respondent saying that “Every landscaper in our state should be doing this course”.

This course covers a variety of topics including Tennessee Smartyards, plant selection, plant installation, integrated pest management and more. The course is taught through videos, written materials, and a quiz and takes approximately 15 hours to complete. Register here for the Certified Landscape Professional course.

UTHort Pros Database

Following completion of either of these courses, you are also eligible to list your business on the UTHort Pros Database where potential clients can find you.  

To be featured on the Department of Plant Sciences website, email Victoria Cavaliere at vcavalie@utk.edu.

By Victoria Cavaliere