Wilson Bros. Observations

Tall garden phlox are a beauty to behold - a must in every southern garden. The large flower clusters, produced in abundance during summer, are perched on tall stems that rise just above the dark green foliage - or variegated foliage in the case of 'Nora Leigh' (shown below). Some are sweetly fragrant, most make good cutflowers, and all are attractive to butterflies. There are many new varieties that have shown good resistance to powdery mildew, as this had been a problem in the high humidity in the south. Below are a few of the more mildew-resistant varieties that we try to keep in stock at the nursery during the season.

Blue Paradise		David		Franz Shubert		Nicky
36" HT		36-48' HT		24-26" HT		48" HT
Lavender-Blue		White- fragrant		Pink - fragrant		Deep Purple
Nora Leigh		Red Super		Robert Poore
24" HT		28" HT		60" HT!
White w/ eye		Red		Rosey-Purple

Culture

Soil: Well-drained, fertile is preferred

Light: Sun or Partial Shade

Usage
Tall garden phlox are great additions to sunny perennial garden or beds. Growing from 2 to 5 feet in height, they should be used in the mid-ground or background. If planted in containers make sure the soil used is a well-drained premium potting mix.

Planting - Plant this perennial as you would most others making sure that there is good drainage. (Do not plant in boggy or consistently wet soils). Also, space plants 2 to 3 feet apart to allow for plenty of breathing room. As with roses and many other plants, overcrowding garden phlox can promote the onset of unsightly powdery mildew during high humidity times, though many of the varieties we stock at the nursery are quite resistant. Dig the hole two to three times the width and no deeper than the rootball. Mix in a good soil ammendment such as Claycutter or Mushroom Compost at a 50/50 ratio with the soil removed from hole. Place rootball in hole making sure that top edge of the rootball is at or slightly above the ground level. Backfill with soil mixture to top edge of rootball. For more detailed instructions and a diagram see Planting Instructions for Perennials.

Care

Pruning - Pruning is not necessary however, cutting the plants back by half their height after the first flush of blooms will often encourage new blooms. When the plant has gone totally dormant in late fall or early winter dead foliage can be trimmed back to the ground.

Fertilization - To enhance flower production and good health fertilize in early spring and again in early summer with a good flower food such as Colorburst, or an organic fertilizer such as Milorganite.

Watering - Once established, garden phlox need little attention to watering however, do give them some water during extended dry periods in summer. You'll know they need a drink if and when the foliage wilts during dry spells.

Known pests and diseases: Powdery mildew is the only problem we've seen. Purchasing mildew resistant varieties, spacing adequately to provide for good air circulation, and not watering the foliage in the late evening, or at night, can prevent the onset of powdery mildew.

All About Perennials