PGMS was officially created in 1911 but the nucleus of the organization began as the National Association of Gardeners in suburban New York and New Jersey in 1905.
In 1911 all institutional grounds managers were invited to join the organization.
The grounds manager is responsible for the management of staff, money, materials and equipment utilized in maintaining and enhancing a landscaped site including turf, trees, woody ornamentals and flowers, outdoor structure and related facilities.
Key membership benefits include: Annual conference and Green Industry Expo, bi-monthly newsletter, membership certificate, certification programs (Certified Grounds Manager and Groundskeeper Certification), free educational manuals, local branch meetings, online membership directory, site awards, free industry magazine subscriptions, etc.
In keeping with its education orientation, PGMS also has student memberships, and sponsors annual scholarships for high school and college students studying in fields pertinent to horticulture and other grounds related fields.