How many varieties of phlox are there?
Phlox (/ˈflɒks/; Ancient Greek: φλόξ flame; plural phlox or phloxes, Ancient Greek: φλόγες phlóges) is a genus of 68 species of perennial and annual plants in the family Polemoniaceae. They are found mostly in North America (one in Siberia) in diverse habitats from alpine tundra to open woodland and prairie. Phlox are herbaceous border stalwarts – hardy and very easy to grow. They have sturdy stems, so even the taller varieties rarely need staking. Largely pest-free and disease-resistant, they last for years in the garden.Phlox paniculata ‘David’ is probably the most well-known cultivar of garden phlox and was even named Perennial Plant of the Year in 2002. Its popularity stems from its reputation for excellent resistance to powdery mildew, which was confirmed in Mt. Cuba Center’s trial.Famous™ Pink Dark Eye Garden Phlox is a dense herbaceous perennial with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its medium texture blends into the garden, but can always be balanced by a couple of finer or coarser plants for an effective composition.Planting phlox: perfect location many phlox species, such as tall perennial phlox, carpet phlox (phlox subulata) or cushion phlox, like a bright and sunny location. However, while tall perennial phlox tends to thrive in deep and moist yet well-drained soils, cushion and carpet phlox prefer a sandy or stony substrate.Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) Native to North America, this hardy ground cover is a favorite among gardeners because it can choke out weeds while providing an enchanting burst of spring color.
What is the problem with Phlox paniculata?
This plant has numerous pest and disease problems and is not always an easy plant to grow well. Phlox bugs, powdery mildew, and root rot can be serious problems. Spider mites can also be a problem, particularly in hot, dry conditions. Taller stems may need staking. Effects of Too Much Direct Sunlight on Phlox Excessive sunlight can lead to significant damage to your Phlox plants. Common issues include leaf scorch, where the edges of leaves turn brown and crispy, and wilting, which makes the plants droop and appear lifeless.
What is the best month to plant phlox?
The ideal time to plant phlox in the ground is spring or autumn. For creeping phlox, the best time is between March and April, just after the last frost. Spring is also suitable for summer phlox, from March to May, so they can establish well for summer flowering. Depends on the type. Phlox are often categorized as early season, midseason, and late season bloomers. By planting varieties of each, you’ll have flowers all summer long and well into autumn.Plant phlox either in the spring after the danger of frost, or in the fall, at least one month before the first fall frost, allowing time for roots to get established. Choose a site with full sun and moist, well-drained soil. For heavy clay soils, amend the soil with compost before planting.Soil: Phlox is tolerant of most garden soils, but well-drained soil is preferable, particularly in northern areas where spring snow is slow to drain. Damp, waterlogged spring soil can rot the dormant roots. Add compost or peat moss to the garden to improve drainage and create a better overall environment.Water newly planted phlox at least once a week for a few weeks. Then water during extended dry periods or when the top couple of inches of soil dries out. Phlox prefers growing in moist but not water-logged soil.
Which phlox blooms all summer?
If you’re looking for a hardy, repeat-blooming perennial that provides vibrant color all summer long, Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata) is a must-have. With its eye-catching blooms and ability to thrive in the heat, this classic perennial is a favorite among gardeners. Depends on the type. Phlox are often categorized as early season, midseason, and late season bloomers. By planting varieties of each, you’ll have flowers all summer long and well into autumn.If you want blooms all summer, consider planting 2-3 successions of Phlox, about 3 weeks apart. Phlox is considered an Annual, but I consider them a “Hardy Annual” since they can tolerate frost when the plants are mature.Once established, these plants provide consistent blooms year after year, making them a long-term investment. Typically, Phlox has a lifespan of 3-5 years, with some varieties living even longer.Once planted, phlox is relatively easy to grow. Phlox has average water needs. While it can handle occasional dry spells, it needs the equivalent of 1 of water weekly during the growing season until its roots are established.
What is the lifespan of a Phlox plant?
Once established, these plants provide consistent blooms year after year, making them a long-term investment. Typically, Phlox has a lifespan of 3-5 years, with some varieties living even longer. Wait until fall frost kills tall phlox before pruning to the ground; fall pruning is keeps powdery mildew at bay. Regular deadheading and light trimming encourage bushier growth, extend blooming, and keep plants tidy. Cut back creeping phlox right after it finishes blooming in spring if pruning then at all.After creeping phlox flowers, trim the plant back and clean up any dead foliage. This will encourage lush new growth and possible late season re-bloom. Deadheading tall garden phlox will prolong blooming and prevent self-seeding. Of course, if you want them to spread for a meadowy appearance, leave a few blooms!After your phlox blooms and the blooms begin to fade, deadhead the plant to encourage it to bloom again. Simply pinch off the flowers or use scissors to cut off the spent blooms. After the blooming season, leave the foliage on your plant to help it gather energy for the coming year.Cutting Back Phlox For Winter Cut back tall phlox in autumn after the stems and leaves have been killed by frost. Leave the top two or three inches of the stems above the soil line.Winter Dormancy Explained It’s a survival tactic, where the plant conserves energy and reduces activity to make it through the cold months. To tell if your Creeping Phlox is dormant, look for slowed growth and fewer new leaves.