North Carolina is among the fastest-growing states in the nation as people flock here for career and economic opportunity and because of its reputation as being one of the most beautiful places to live and play. As the state’s cities grow, members of the green industry are mindful of the stress the growth puts on our natural resources and are driven to grow in a sustainable way. The North Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association (NCNLA) is an avid advocate for the green industry, ensuring that floriculture, nursery and greenhouse crops are a part of sustainable landscaping. As part of these efforts, they became an early supporter of the North Carolina Plant Sciences Initiative (N.C. PSI).
Tell us about the NC Nursery and Landscape Association and your mission.
The North Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association is a 501(c)5 non-profit membership organization of firms interested in the welfare of North Carolina’s green industry, with emphasis on the nursery and landscape industries. Members include growers, landscape firms, retail garden centers, industry suppliers, horticulture students and educators. Its mission is to provide essential value to members through education, marketing, and advocacy.
Why was the NCNLA interested in funding the N.C. Plant Sciences Initiative?
NCNLA is a longtime partner of NC State University and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and supports horticulture research that addresses challenges the green industry faces. Research to develop drought-tolerant and pest-resistant ornamental plants that require fewer inputs, grow faster, and perform better will help the North Carolina green industry compete economically.
What are you hoping will come out of the partnership?
NCNLA’s partnership will enhance its commitment to provide value to members by supporting horticulture research that seeks to improve ornamental crop production through innovative technology.
Fund Our Work
What we Think and Do improves the world through plant science innovation. Please consider supporting our work with your financial support.
Dinah Schuster
Senior Director of Development, Plant Sciences Initiative
P: 919.513.8294
daschust@ncsu.edu
