Okay so I finally passed the Associate Landscape Professional exam last month and I'm still kind of shocked. First attempt back in March I scored a 68, which was just below the passing threshold. Honestly I thought I had it — I'd been in the landscape industry for three years and figured my field experience would carry me. It didn't. The exam tests way more technical knowledge than I expected, especially soil science, plant identification, and irrigation design.
Second time around I actually sat down and used a proper ALP practice test to figure out where my gaps were. Turns out I was weak on turfgrass management and pest/disease ID, which cost me a lot of points the first time. I built a study schedule — about 45 minutes a day for six weeks — and focused heavily on those weak areas. The study guide from NALP was helpful but dense, so I supplemented with flashcards.
For anyone prepping right now: don't underestimate the plant ID portion. I'd guess it's 20-25% of what tripped me up. Happy to share more specific exam tips if anyone's in the same boat.