About the DNLA

The DNLA serves as a leader in Delaware’s thriving $745 million green industry, supporting businesses across the horticulture and landscape sectors.

The Delaware Nursery & Landscape Association (DNLA) is a non-profit trade organization that supports Delaware’s horticulture-related businesses and their suppliers. The Association works in close partnership with the Delaware Department of Agriculture and the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension to help shape legislative and administrative policies affecting the state’s green industry.

To advance its mission, the DNLA hosts annual conferences, trade shows, and certification programs that promote professional development and industry excellence.

DNLA Mission Statement

”To promote and protect the nursery and landscape industry and enhance the quality of its products and services

History of the DNLA

Originally known as the Delaware Association of Nurserymen, the organization was founded on February 23, 1973, by a dedicated group of 28 growers, retailers, and landscape contractors. United by a commitment to advancing and promoting Delaware’s green industry, these charter members laid the foundation for what would become a vital industry association. Over time, the membership grew to represent a broader range of professionals within the green industry. In 2000, members voted to change the name to the Delaware Nursery & Landscape Association (DNLA) to more accurately reflect the diversity of its membership. As the DNLA continues to evolve, it remains grounded in the mission and values established by its founders.

Partnership with the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension

The Delaware Nursery and Landscape Association (DNLA) and the University of Delaware have a long-standing and collaborative relationship. When the DNLA was first established, Dr. Charlie Dunham, then the Extension Specialist for Ornamental Horticulture, served as the organization’s secretary. Today, the Extension Specialist continues to serve as an educational advisor to the DNLA, with additional Extension personnel also contributing in advisory roles.

For more information, please visit the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension.

Learn More

The University of Delaware and the Delaware Nursery & Landscape Association (DNLA) collaborate on a variety of programs and events that support and advance Delaware’s green industry. This ongoing partnership includes:

Educational meetings held throughout the year to address timely industry topics
The Horticulture Short Course Series, part of the University’s broader educational efforts for nursery and landscape professionals
Programming developed by the University of Delaware Ornamentals Task Force, tailored to meet the evolving needs of the industry
The DNLA News, written and published by the Extension Specialist for Ornamental Horticulture, featuring updates, research, and industry insights
The DNLA Certified Nursery Professional Program, created through a joint effort between DNLA industry leaders and University of Delaware Extension professionals

For more information, please visit the University of Delaware Cooperative Extension.

Address

P.O. Box 897
Hockessin, DE 19707
(888) 448-1203
info@DNLAonline.org

Our Mission:

To advance the common interest of its members and to promote the use, and enhance the quality, of the products and skills of the green industry.

DNLA Membership Seal

Members in good standing with DNLA may display this special member seal to let other businesses and homeowners know they are an approved and active member of our professional organization.