The good folks at American Nursery & Landscape Association have sent word that you still have time to sign up for summer school.

No, no. This isn’t remedial algebra. It’s your last chance to join the current class of Garden Center University.

Garden Center University is a two-year journey that has been called a “mini MBA” for garden retailers. This past January, the current GCU Class of 2012 completed their first of five semesters together. If you were unable to attend Semester I, you still have an opportunity to join this group beginning with Semester II taking place this July 25-27 in San Jose, Calif.

Here’s the kicker: This will be the last opportunity to participate in GCU until January 2012.

If GCU sounds like a great way to kick start your business, click here for full details. I’ve heard nothing but good things about the program. But don’t take my word for it…

“One of the most unique aspects of ANLA's Garden Center University is how incredibly interactive the program is. You learn ways to improve your business not only from the professor [industry consultant Ian Baldwin], but from networking with your classmates and by visiting garden centers all across the country. You truly learn the 'business' of the garden center business. I don't care if you are just opening a brand new garden center or if you have been in the industry for twenty years—everyone can benefit from this program.”
Mary Blondell, Gary's Gardens (Severna Park, Md.)
GCU Class of 2004

“I would be scared to know where we would be today without going through GCU. When we started in January of 2006, our business was experiencing tremendous growth. Tina and I were just winging it. In GCU, we learned what numbers to look at and how to evaluate them. What we learned has helped us become who we are today. I would recommend GCU to any garden center (or any retailer) that is ready to take their business to the next level!”
DeWayne Lee, DeWayne's Home & Garden Showplace (Selma, N.C.)
GCU Class of 2008