Via a partnership with John Deere Landscapes (JDL), the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association (ONLA) beefed up its educational offerings for the 2015 Central Environmental Nursery Trade Show (CENTS) Marketplace & University, held Jan. 7-9 at The Greater Columbus (Ohio) Convention Center.

A day before the show, Jan. 6, professional landscape contractors will have the opportunity to engage in John Deere Landscapes University (JDLU).

The JDLU program includes a vendor show and classes on lawn and turf, irrigation, lighting and electrical, pest and disease and business management.

That evening from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. attendees also may attend a pre-convention event at the Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, hosted by the ONLA which includes a cocktail and dessert reception and a Behind-the-Scenes tour of the “Orchids!” show, before it opens to the public.

“John Deere Landscapes is a great industry partner and the reputation of John Deere Landscapes University is singular, so making it more convenient for professionals to participate in this program is a business value-add for the region” said Kevin Thompson, ONLA executive director.

Brett Dormire, JDL area manager, added: “Bringing our Columbus—John Deere Landscapes University program to the site of CENTS Marketplace & University is good business. This partnership allows our organizations and customers to benefit from our shared vision and commitment to deliver high quality education from expert educators; as we showcase the equipment, tools and technical resources green industry professionals need to succeed.”