NAPPO is a trade association dedicated to promoting the development, protection, production and distribution of new and improved plant varieties. To accomplish this purpose, NAPPO advocates a strong Plant Patent Act and effective administration of the plant patent and trademark systems by the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. NAPPO works to educate Congress and other policymakers, the nursery & landscape industry, garden writers, and others on plant patents and trademarks, and the benefits of new plant breeding and introduction. NAPPO also sponsors research into genetic fingerprinting and other related topics.

NAPPO was founded in 1939 with just eight members, and now represents the foremost breeders of new plant varieties in the U.S. and many foreign countries. NAPPO is administered by the American Nursery & Landscape Association. Programs and activities are managed by a six-member board of directors and a staff administrator. Membership meetings are held in January and July.

Membership in NAPPO
NAPPO members represent a broad cross-section of businesses and individuals interested in plant breeding and introduction. Active membership is open to firms and individuals holding one or more plant patents or federally-registered trademarks on plant varieties. Active member dues are based on the number of patents owned. Associate membership is open to any individual or business interested in plant breeding, introduction, and intellectual property protection including patent attorneys and agents. Associate member dues are $100 annually.

NAPPO Services
In addition to being represented before Congress and the federal agencies, NAPPO members receive:

• A periodic newsletter and special bulletins on timely developments;
• A monthly communication listing of new plant patents issued;
• Special pricing on the Plant Patent Directory publication.