Accredited Organic Land Care Practitioner

The landscape industry is rapidly changing while responding to a growing demand for organic practices. In order to assist the public to make an informed selection of services, SOUL ensures Accredited Practitioners have demonstrated a thorough understanding of the principles and practices of Organic Land Care. SOUL Accredited Organic Land Care Practitioners have completed sufficient education and passed the accreditation exam.

Benefits of being an Accredited Practitioner:

1. Distinguishes you from others in the industry as a dedicated and knowledgeable professional

2. Awards you with a professional designation specific to organic land care

3. Creates peace of mind for your clients

4. Promote your services

5. Facilitates interaction with other knowledgeable professionals 

Become an Accredited Practitioner

1. Education
Complete the Organic Master Gardener course or Organic Horticulture Specialist through Gaia College.

OR

If you are already a landscape professional who has adapted organic land care practices and want to write the exam please contact us. 

The exam application fee is $200 and includes:

• The proctoring fee
• One re-write, if needed
• A one year SOUL Accredited Practitioner membership

Once you register for the exam and we will contact you regarding proof of education and to schedule a time for your exam. Once you've passed the exam, your membership status will be updated automatically. 

Apply now

*If you need to write in an in-person setting, please email us to make the arrangements. 

The best way to prepare for the exam is to review and understand the SOUL standards. If you've completed one of Gaia College's courses, any notes you have would also be helpful. Additionally, the book, The Essence of Organic Gardening by Heide Hermary, may also be helpful. 

3. Write the Exam

• The exam is proctored via Zoom or Meet at a time that suits your schedule. Please have one piece of government issued photo I.D. available to present to the proctor. 
• The exam is composed of 150 statements with four true or false supporting statements/questions. 
• You will receive one point for each correct answer for a maximum score of 600 points. The minimum grade to pass is 80%, or 480 of 600 points. 
• You will have 3 hours to complete the exam.

4. Renew your Accreditation annually
Accreditation must be renewed each year (one year after purchase or renewal). The $100.00 annual fee includes your professional membership in SOUL.

SOUL accreditation provides a common thread in organic land use decision making and allows practitioners to speak a common language and use the same framework to inform those decisions. SOUL invites certification for professionals from many sectors, such as environmental and eco-agriculture.