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About MSC Certification
(Consumer) How can you tell a good mulch or soil product just by looking at it? |
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Soils are complex. You can’t tell a good one from a bad one just by its appearance. Even a lab test of soil chemical or physical properties can’t tell you the whole story, but the Mulch and Soil Council has developed a test that is the next best thing to the whole story...a growth test. In 2003, the MSC launched its Product Certification Program. Products that pass the requirements of the certification program and comply with ongoing audit testing of products in retail markets earn the badge of the MSC certification logo for their packaging. |
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Why Product Certification? The MSC Product Certification Program was developed to assist regulators, retailers, writers, academics, and most importantly, consumers, in determining what products conform to the Voluntary Uniform Product Guidelines for Horticultural Mulches, Growing Media and Landscape Soils (VUPG). The latest version of the VUPG may be viewed by clicking here. These guidelines were developed over a five-year period of industry debate among Council members and non-members to define product nomenclature, uniform product characteristics, minimal performance objectives and proper labeling requirements to inform and protect end users. |
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Mulch & Soil Council Disclaimer (click here) All information provided herein by the Mulch & Soil Council ("MSC") is provided for general information and reference purposes only. The information may change periodically and you should review the information periodically to ensure that you have the most current version. The information, and use of the information, is subject to the following legal disclaimer which you are responsible for reviewing now and periodically, as program limitations and the disclaimer may be modified from time to time. What is the Mulch & Soil Council? Founded in 1972 as the National Bark and Soil Producers Association, The Mulch & Soil Council is a non-profit association of companies that manufacture and sell horticultural mulches, consumer potting soils and soil amendments and commercial growing media throughout North America. It is estimated that member producers account for a majority of the products sold in North America. In addition, industry suppliers, academic, and regulatory body members round out the membership. Mission Statement The mission of the MSC is to define and promote quality products and a fair and open market place for producers of horticultural mulches, consumer soils and commercial growing media. Council Goals & Objectives Goal 1: Promote uniform guidelines, standards and certification. • Consolidate guidelines and standards • Set product standards as needed • Re-evaluate and expand certification program Goal 2: Promote ethical business practices: • Define ethical practices for corporate conduct • Define industry “Best Management Practices” Goal 3: Promote fair laws and regulations: • Promote uniform regulations among all states • Promote horticultural growing media labeling act Goal 4: Provide industry education and training • Monitor education needs. • Sponsor industry training programs & seminars • Conduct special workshops as needed Goal 5: Promote industry growth. • Market certification to all retailers • Educate Consumers on certified product value • Educate industry companies on quality issues Goal 6: Collect and disseminate information • Increase industry trade media coverage • Expand web information resources Goal 7: Promote research and technology development on industry issues. |
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Serving Industry Since 1972
Mulch and Soil Council 10210 Leatherleaf Ct., Manassas, VA 20111-4245 TEL: (703) 257-0111 / FAX: (703) 257-0213 info@mulchandsoilcouncil.org |
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Website created by Ryan LaGasse 2004
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