Traditional landscape pest control programs rely on what are called "cover sprays." The pest-control sprays offered to the client are based on the company's knowledge of common pest problems and control measures in the service area. The cover-spray type, method and timing are pre-determined by the company. The homeowner may have the option to choose from a number of pest-control programs. Traditional pest control programs are not necessarily obsolete or "bad" for the environment and may be the best option for clients who have overriding concerns about program cost or are only concerned about one specific pest problem.

In contrast, plant health care technicians consider the landscape as a whole when deciding how to best care for plants. PHC technicians manage plant problems through careful monitoring of the landscape environment. Chemical controls may be part of the treatment, but they are not necessarily used in every treatment. Because of this, every PHC program is "customized" to fit the client's property and expectations.

The PHC technician maintains landscape plants by:
•evaluating the landscape's environment
•noting causes of plant stress (stressors)
•maintaining plant performance through proper cultural practices
•investigating the landscape through monitoring
•identifying and treating problems as they occur

The following are examples of some common problems:
1. Many plant problems are related to improper matching of the plant's requirements to the landscape site.
2. Plants may have been improperly planted.
3. Plants may be subjected to improper maintenance techniques.
4. Often a combination of improper plant siting (wrong plant/wrong site), improper planting and improper maintenance techniques can cause plant stress and decline.