Charming phlox
Each gardener has his own flowers in the garden, but there are those types that almost everyone loves. Let's take phlox - fragrant, delicate, so different and pleasing to frosty flowers, well, who could not love them. If you don’t already have these nice bushes in your flower beds, then it’s time to fix the situation. Today we will tell you about a species that includes many varieties for every taste - this is paniculate phlox. It will become a worthy decoration for your garden, and read on about the growing method and more.
Flame flowers - inspiration for legend makers
You know that phlox translated from Greek means flame. It was given a beautiful name by none other than Karl Lineus. And now people are arguing about why phlox were named that way - perhaps because there are varieties of a rich red tone, and when they all bloom like a carpet on the field, it seems that it is on fire. We think that the flowers could have received this name due to the fact that many of them have pointed petals, like a star.
Well, what about the legend? There is one - at a time when people and gods lived together, Odysseus and his companions were forced to visit the afterlife, where Hades ruled. Odysseus carried torches to light the way, but when the mission was completed and he returned to earth, he threw them away. Where the torches fell, unusual flowers grew, and as you can understand, from the legend, these were phloxes.
On a note! There is another opinion about the origin of the name of flowers, but not so widespread. It is believed that phlox was given this name in Germany, they have the word “flocken”, translated into our language - these are snow flakes.
Description of paniculate phlox
Paniculate flowers are called by the shape of the panicle inflorescences. Beginners may not know this, and not only phloxes are like this, but also other plants. For example, the luxurious hydrangea, often found in our gardens. Phlox has many different types, which already include their own varieties.
Legends are legends, but now scientists are more inclined to believe that phloxes were originally residents of North American content. Because that's where the most different species were found. As for European and Asian countries, only one wild phlox can be found there - the Siberian species. Moreover, this is not at all the flower that we are used to seeing in the garden, no, it is a small ground cover bush.
For information! Phloxes are very different, there are more than 70 perennial species, even more varieties, but there is only one annual species - the low-growing "Drummond".
Phlox paniculata can grow throughout our country. Its flowering begins in the third decade of June and ends when severe frost hits. Also called garden flowers, they are perennials. Bushes, depending on the variety, can be from 40 to 150 cm, they have incredible colors, and the shape of the panicle can be different. The root system is predominantly located near the soil surface - 5-20 cm, very powerful.
Advice! When planting perennial flowers with strong roots, immediately determine where they will be best suited and how best to decorate the landscape with them, since replanting such plants is not easy.
Phlox paniculata are quite large bushes, often spreading, they require a lot of space. Also, a powerful root system needs regular nutrition and hydration. If these two methods of agricultural technology are followed, the flowering will be more abundant and will continue until the most severe cold weather. The seeds ripen in late autumn, after which the stems begin to die. They can be cut off in winter, but in the spring the bushes will be reborn again. The roots tend to rise annually, as new buds form higher than the previous ones, so sometimes you will have to add nutritious soil.
On a note! The color range of paniculate phloxes is luxurious, incredibly diverse - there are innocent white, scarlet, lilac, and the colors of a stormy sky. But there are practically no yellow shades to be found among perennials.
Phlox paniculata - get acquainted with the varieties and their photos
Delicate charm Large-flowered variety - up to 4 cm. The shade can be white or heavenly; in dry years, summer residents noted the appearance of a star in the center. It tolerates harsh winters well and is not afraid of diseases. The panicle is not very densely packed with flowers, it spreads slightly to the sides, there are few leaves on the stems. It has an average flowering period, the height of the bushes is 50-55 cm. It is an unpretentious variety and reproduces very well.
"Alexander Immer"
Modest and nice These paniculate phloxes have a pleasant raspberry hue, 3-3.5 cm in diameter. The inflorescences have a uniform hue and do not fade throughout the entire period. Phloxes are flat spherical, loose, not very voluminous. The bushes are slightly less than half a meter high. Not afraid of diseases, winters well.
Original cones An interesting variety, as its panicles are densely packed with flowers that do not fully open. As a result, some of the flowers remain in the shape of a cone of petals - it looks unusual and decorative. The height can vary from 50-70 cm, while the bushes themselves do not fall apart. It has medium flowering periods, rapid growth, and high winter hardiness. The color of the flowers is pink-lilac.
Advice! Phloxes can be combined very beautifully. For example, by planting tall white varieties along the fence in the background, and low-growing purple or red varieties in the front. Very aesthetically pleasing.
"Bouquet"
Tender and romantic Large-flowered - up to 4.5 cm in diameter, the shade of the petals is soft pink. The colors do not change throughout the season; the inflorescence has a slight texture. The shape is conical and round. The panicle is large, stuffed, very decorative. The height of the bush is from 60 to 70 cm, there is slight pubescence on the stems, it does not fall apart, the leaves look down. Highly resistant to diseases and cold.
Luxurious shade This variety of paniculate phlox has a delicate shade of salmon; it is slightly lighter in the middle. The inflorescence is hemispherical and can change shade in the hot sun - burn out, which is not very good. The height of the bushes is up to 70 cm, they look impressive, the stems are located tightly to each other. Flowers are up to 4 cm in diameter, the edging has a wave. It easily tolerates harsh winters and dry summers, but has average resistance to diseases.
Common Phlox The variety has a purple tint to the inflorescence; it is large and well-filled. The bushes grow compactly, although they are tall - up to 75 cm. They have medium flowering periods, tolerate cold well, and are not afraid of attacks by fungal diseases. This paniculate phlox can often be found in the flowerbeds of our summer residents.
"Dove of peace"
White grace White phlox, up to 4 cm in diameter, the inflorescence is pyramid-shaped and large. The bushes are very impressive - up to a meter in height, they have a lot of leaves, the variety grows quickly and does not fall apart. Very unpretentious flowers, they are not afraid of all adversity, they look luxurious, especially in combination with 1-2 more shades.
Advice! When choosing varieties for your dacha, consider the shades so that they either combine with each other, or there are 2-3 of them. Otherwise, the flowerbed looks flashy and tacky, and the beauty of individual flowers is difficult to discern.
The lavender shade is especially luxurious It has a blue tint, but there are also notes of purple, the middle of the flower is darker. The bushes grow up to a meter or more, are medium dense, and have a cone shape. Flowering is medium late, phloxes are highly resistant to diseases and bad weather. The stems have pubescence. The shade may vary depending on the lighting.
"Mishenka"
Flowers for a great mood This variety of paniculate phlox has a beautiful petal color - white with a scarlet stripe. But this shade does not last all summer, it can lighten and fade. Diameter is up to 3.5 cm, the shape of the inflorescences is in the form of a pyramid. The bushes are tall - up to 1 meter. It has an average flowering period, reproduces well and does not require special care, does not freeze.
"The Dragon"
Extravagant variety A very beautiful variety and unusual. It changes the shade of the petals from deep purple to silver. In the middle there is a violet-red star. Height - up to 90 cm, average flowering time, like all previous varieties, does not get sick and is not afraid of frost.
"Zhukovsky"
Durable and beautiful This variety of paniculate phlox is somewhat similar to hyacinths, as many summer residents believe. The inflorescences are conical, large, loosely packed. In diameter - up to 3.5 cm. Tall - up to 1 meter. It can spread to the side and is considered the hardiest variety of phlox. The shade decorates the flower beds - it is white with undertones of blue and lilac.
Unique shade Phlox paniculata of this variety will win the heart of any gardener. This is exactly the case when the shade can be called yellow, although it is still more light green. The height of the bushes is up to 90 cm, the diameter of the flowers is small - up to 1.5 cm, but they are densely packed on a panicle and look very decorative, which you can see for yourself in the photo. Will decorate both the flowerbed and the vase.
"Igor Talkov"
Unpretentious and pleasant The variety has very large flowers - up to 5 cm in diameter, they are deep purple in color and white in the center. Phloxes do not lose their color all season. The inflorescences are dense, hemispherical, well-filled. The bushes grow up to 80 cm, have medium flowering periods, and do not decay. It is not afraid of diseases and severe frosts, and grows quickly.
Scarlet velvet A stunning variety with velvety scarlet petals. They are up to 3.7 cm in diameter, phloxes do not lose color all summer, after rainfall the petals still remain decorative and spots do not appear on them. The inflorescence is spherical, filled with flowers, and large. These bushes are relatively low - 40-50 cm, and do not fall apart. Flowering is mid-late, phloxes do not get sick and winter well.
Great flowers for a bouquet This paniculata phlox is very pleasant and pleasing to the eye. Its petals are lilac at the edges and a pink star adorns the middle. Grows up to 75 cm, grows medium, overwinters well. The inflorescence is conical, densely packed, flower diameter is up to 4 cm. Flowering is mid-early. The bushes do not fall apart.
We present you with 15 very good varieties; we have chosen those that can survive the winter even in our climate, when drought gives way to downpours, and thaws give way to severe frosts. Flowers are quite resistant to cold weather, as well as to many ailments, but they need moisture and nutrition. But this is another section, where we will talk about planting and caring for the paniculate type of phlox.
Advice! Varietal flowers are not so easy to buy in season, so it’s better to go to seed stores in advance or order online. But always pay attention to the packaging date.
Agricultural technology for growing paniculate phlox - all point by point from the very beginning
We will tell you how to grow beautiful flowers from the first stage - seedlings. Panicle phlox can reproduce easily - by layering, dividing the bush and rhizomes. You can separate flowers in early spring and autumn. Of course, any plant is grown from seeds, but it is worth noting that phloxes quickly lose their viability. Well, we start sowing.
Preparing soil, containers and seeds
Everything is simple here - the trays must fit the size of your window sill. You can immediately sow paniculate phlox in separate peat pots, which are then planted directly into the ground outside. The seeds must first be kept in the cold for a week - stratification; for this, place them in the refrigerator. Store-bought soil or soil from the garden mixed with humus, sand, and ash is suitable. The first two components can be taken 1/1, the last – 1/3.
Advice! To prevent fragile seedlings from getting sick, pour boiling water containing manganese crystals onto the soil under the seedlings.
Timing and landing
Sowing can be done from the second ten days of March until April. Transfer to open ground will take place after all frosts have passed. Yes, you can say that paniculate phloxes are frost-resistant, we said it ourselves. Everything is true, but we are talking about adult plants. So, if it is already warm in early May, then sowing can be done even earlier; if it is closer to mid-June, then wait until April so that the seedlings do not outgrow.
Sowing is carried out in rows up to 1 cm deep at a distance of 3-5 cm, after which they are lightly sprinkled with soil. Moisten with a spray bottle so as not to wash away the crops. Then cover with film until germination. The room should be warm - 20-23 degrees. Under such conditions, the seedlings will sprout in about a week and a half; immediately remove the film and place the containers on a sunny window.
If you sow densely, then in the phase of 3-4 true leaves you need to thin out the seedlings, leaving the strongest seedlings. About a week after transplantation, when the seedlings have already adapted, you need to add nitrogen fertilizer, which can be found in any gardening or flower store. This will give strength to the seedlings, and they will begin to grow green mass well. Two weeks before planting outside, the seedlings are hardened off by lowering the temperature.
Important! If you decide to leave the seedlings outside overnight, considering that they are already quite strong, then keep an eye on the forecast so that there is no frost. Even just hypothermia leads to slower growth and development.
Landing in a permanent place
In May, a week before planting, you need to start preparing the site - all weeds, roots, and crop residues are removed. Then you need to dig up the ground. Panicle phlox like the soil to have enough moisture and air. Therefore, if your soil is too heavy, add 1-2 buckets of sand per square meter. If the soil is acidic, then sprinkle 100-200 grams of lime. If, on the contrary, the area is too sandy, then the soil is mixed with compost and, if possible, a little clay is added. Loam is diluted with a glass of wood ash, 50 grams of superphosphate, a bucket of humus, and 100 grams of bone meal.
So, all fertilizers are applied per square meter, then the area is dug up and poured with boiling water and manganese. When the soil dries out, holes are made. Depending on the size of the seedlings, they can be small - for seedlings or the size of a rhizome, which should be free inside. If you did not apply any fertilizer during digging, now you can fill the hole a third with humus or rotted compost and add a little less than a tablespoon of a complex mineral preparation. After that, paniculate phlox are planted, covered with soil and shed generously.
Advice! To ensure that the soil retains moisture well, does not overheat and keeps warm in cold times, the flowers are mulched. For the summer it can be decorative materials, for the winter it can be simple straw, peat or spruce branches.
Care after landing
Two weeks after planting, when the seedlings have taken root, you can apply nitrogen fertilizer. You can feed it with saltpeter - a spoonful in a bucket of water or with manure - 1/10 with water, and mullein is diluted in the same proportion. Then, every 14-20 days, paniculate phlox will need to be fertilized in turn with mineral compounds and organic matter. For example, it could be 10 grams of potassium and the same amount of superphosphate, mixed with wood ash, you can take the drug “AVA”. From organic matter, chicken manure is used - 1/20 with water. An approximate schedule should be like this - after picking, after rooting, during budding, flowering and after its end.
Advice! If you don’t have time to dilute various fertilizers with water, then just buy any liquid preparation in a store for flowering plants.
As for other agricultural techniques, paniculate phlox require a minimum of attention. Watering should be done as the soil dries; the soil should be loosened carefully so as not to damage the roots. Of course, weeds will be regularly removed from the beds, and those bushes that fall to the side need to be tied up.
How to propagate phlox?
We told you about seed propagation and how to get seedlings too. But what to do if you want to divide your phloxes that have already grown? It couldn’t be simpler. This can be done in early spring or autumn, when the above-ground part has not yet grown, by dividing the root into parts. Or separate the part completely from the bush, but not during flowering, so that the phloxes do not start to hurt. Then you prepare the holes again, fertilize and plant flowers. The bushes need to be molded for the first 1-2 weeks, and soon they will take root.
Diseases of paniculate phlox
Flowers are unpretentious and they can only get sick if agricultural practices are incorrect. If you apply fertilizer, choose a good sunny place, the plants are not disturbed by other tall plantings, and there are no weeds, then the phlox will not get sick. If they lack something, a number of ailments may develop:
- Powdery mildew is quite common on phlox. It looks like a white coating of flour. For the fight they use “Oxychom”, “Hom”, Bordeaux mixture, “Abiga-pik”;
- phomosis - most often formed during budding, flowers begin to curl and fade. Bordeaux mixture and cutting off diseased parts will help again;
- rust - leaves become covered with brown spots. For processing, copper sulfate and Bordeaux mixture are used.
These agricultural techniques will be enough to grow luxurious paniculate phlox. Taking care of flowers will help you avoid various negative aspects, and in return you will get long-lasting beautiful flowering.
Phlox paniculata is a common winter-hardy, light-moisture-loving garden plant, distinguished by a variety of varieties. Bright inflorescences are the reason for the name of the herbaceous plant of the Sinyukhov family; phlox is translated from Greek as “flame”.
The perennial belongs to the group of tall phloxes, and the flowering times are varied and depend on the variety. Let's look at the features of planting and caring for this plant in this article.
The plant is also called “Flamer”, “Torch”, since at first phloxes were cultivated only with a bright scarlet tint of inflorescences, reminiscent of tongues of flame. After the work of breeders, a wide variety of color combinations appeared: from pure white and blue to cherry red and purple.
There are varieties with inflorescences in two contrasting shades, for example, phlox Aspich is attractive with bright purple flowers with a snow-white center.
Characteristic
Phlox paniculata is a bush type of crop, which is a perennial herbaceous plant in the form of a bush, with a paniculate inflorescence at the top of the stem, which is formed in the form of a ball or loose brush.
It withstands wintering well if the ground is covered with a thick layer of snow; it prefers a moderate, humid and warm climate. Many varieties of paniculata phlox are distinguished by their flowering time, height, stem length, color and shape of inflorescences, and disease resistance.
Crown. Bushes ranging in height from 60 to 150-180 cm, with tall stems that stand firmly, but are quite fragile, by the end of the growing season they lend themselves to lignification at the base. Varieties with a height of more than a meter need support.
Flowers.Inflorescences form at the crown of the stem. The flowers are bisexual, tubular, with five petals (see photo). The colors are not only monochromatic, but also with specks, strokes, and a border along the edge of the petals. Flowering lasts from 3 to 6 weeks and begins, depending on the variety, in June, July, August-September. The buds bloom gradually, replacing already faded inflorescences every week.
Fruits and leaves. The leaves are paired, lanceolate, sitting on the stem in pairs, crosswise. After wilting, the flower gradually dries, forming a fruit in the form of a small three-lobed capsule with seeds.
Peculiarities
Among the colors of paniculata phlox, yellow is not found due to the lack of the necessary pigment. Most varieties have a pleasant, subtle aroma that intensifies in the evenings or after rain.
The tallest plants grow if they are planted in a slightly shaded area. It is not recommended to place a flower bed with phlox next to lilacs, birches, and spruce trees - their shallow root system will not allow the flowers to fully develop.
Collected and dried phlox flowers in Rus' were blessed on the holiday of the Honey Savior along with other medicinal plants. Herbal decoctions were used to treat headaches and promote health, happiness and well-being of children, pregnant women and women in labor.
The name of phlox is associated with a beautiful legend, according to which the flowers appeared from torches thrown to the ground, illuminating the path of Odysseus to the kingdom of Hades.
Landing site and conditions
Phlox paniculata are quite unpretentious and grow in different soils. Areas with slight slopes and moist soil will be optimal for planting.
It is advisable that during active sun hours the flowerbed area should be shaded by sparse shrubs and trees and protected by fences or buildings from the wind. In northern regions with a cold climate, areas are chosen that are sheltered from the north wind and exposed to the south, southeast and west.
Lighting
Plants are suitable for areas of the flower garden next to sparse trees that provide light translucent shade, light garden paths, and alleys. A planting site that receives direct sunlight only before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m. will produce luxurious flower bushes with lush, bright inflorescences.
Place
The right decision is to plant phlox next to small trees, since in winter a lot of snow accumulates near the trunks, a thick layer of which will protect the plants from freezing. In the wild, phlox are inhabitants of forest clearings, so mulch from fallen tree leaves, covering the root growth points with a thick layer, promotes reproduction by vegetative means - from the remains of the rhizome.
Temperature
Phlox paniculata is an unpretentious species that can withstand the summer heat during the growing season if there is sufficient watering and there is no drying draft from the hot wind. In spring, short-term frosts down to -3° C will damage the buds, but the stems and leaves will remain intact.
In winter, in the absence of snow cover, the growth buds freeze out, and the root system dies at -20, -25° C. Properly pruned and covered with a mixture of peat with soil, straw and spruce branches, the plants overwinter well even at -30° C.
Humidity
Despite the fact that phlox is considered an undemanding crop, it is difficult for them to tolerate dry air. High adaptability allows you to survive in difficult conditions, but this negatively affects the decorativeness of the bushes and the quality of flowering.
The highest need for warm, moist air in phlox occurs during the formation of buds. But waterlogging also has a negative effect and causes powdery mildew infection. It is important to maintain a balance, water and spray plants in a timely manner during periods of too dry, windy weather.
Priming
Phlox paniculata grows well on cultivated, fertile, moist soils; they do not like acidified areas; such soil is limed in advance before planting. Flowers grow poorly in swampy lowlands and on poor sandy hills.
Heavy loams are enriched with organic matter, sand and peat are added. Sandy soil with sufficient humus content will allow you to grow strong and beautiful phlox bushes.
Landing
The best time for planting phlox is spring (April-early May). During this period, high soil moisture and relatively low air temperature favor rapid rooting of plants and better survival rate.
Phlox can also be planted in late August - early September. Timely planting in the fall also ensures good rooting and abundant flowering next year.
During preparation, compost is added to the soil, peat is added to sandy soils, and loams are lightened with sand. Fertilize with a complex of mineral fertilizers during digging. You can make your own soil by mixing peat, sand and humus in equal quantities, or buy a universal one in a specialty store. Step-by-step instructions for planting:
- Spring planting is done in April, autumn planting in October.
- The holes are dug not too deep, 25-30 cm, focusing on the size of the root system of the seedling.
- The distance between plants is from 35 to 50 cm, depending on the variety. The taller and larger the bushes are, the more space they need.
- The bottom of the hole is covered one third with soil in the form of a slide.
- A seedling is placed on a mound of soil and the roots are carefully straightened.
- Fill the hole, trying not to leave any air spaces above the roots.
- The root collar is not buried.
- Water the seedling with warm water, compacting the soil around the stem.
- Mulch the tree trunk circle with peat, in a layer no thinner than 5-7 cm.
Care
Phlox paniculata does not require a special approach; for good growth and a decorative appearance, it is enough to choose a suitable planting site, water it on time and feed it if necessary.
Watering
The soil should not be allowed to dry out during drought during the growing season. The most crucial moment is the spring growth of shoots, the formation of inflorescences and buds. At this time, watering is carried out at least once a week. For 1 sq. m uses about 20 liters of water. To avoid stagnation of moisture, plants are planted on small slopes or in well-drained soil.
After flowering begins, watering is carried out less frequently, so that the moisture evaporates less, and inflorescences that have wilted are removed. In the hot season, they resort to spraying the leaves.
In the long and dry autumn, watering phlox is extended until October, so as not to weaken the plant before wintering; in a normal season, watering is stopped several weeks before frost. The best time of day for the procedure is morning or evening.
Phlox paniculata roots are located shallowly, about 15 cm underground. Therefore, the top layer of soil should not be allowed to dry out, as well as excessive moisture. If the plant's leaves look limp and drooping, watering is necessary.
Water for irrigation is preliminarily settled in containers to be heated in the sun. Watering with cold well water, especially during periods of intensive growth, leads to cracking of the shoots.
Top dressing
Mineral fertilizer complexes are selected taking into account the life cycle of phlox. In spring, plants need nitrogen, and during flowering, potassium and phosphorus. During the period of seed ripening and accumulation of nutrients before winter, phosphorus is needed.
- The first spring feeding is carried out in early May; 25-30 g of ammonium nitrate, 30 g of superphosphate and 50 g of ash are applied to the bushes.
- At the end of May, they are fed with mullein infusion: the infused liquid is diluted 1:10.
- During the formation of buds, repeat the first feeding.
- After flowering, the plants are fed with a universal complex, for example, Kemira is added - 50 g.
- During the period of growth and flowering, foliar feeding has a good effect - spraying the leaves with Uniflor micro (5 ml per 20 liters of water) or an ash solution.
Loosening, pruning
Phlox paniculates do not require pinching or pinching, as this will harm the decorative appearance and negatively affect the quality of flowering. Pruning is necessary for plants during the vegetative period - leaving no more than 7 shoots in the bush, they achieve the most luxuriant flowering and large, bright flowers.
The soil is loosened regularly during the growing season and flowering after watering, preventing the formation of a hard crust on the surface. At the same time, weeding, hilling in the second half of the growing season, and debris removal around the bush are carried out. Mandatory mulching in the spring will help retain moisture in the ground and protect the roots from overheating in hot weather.
Transfer
Phlox lose frost resistance over time, so every 4-6 years the plants need to divide old bushes and replant them in a new place. This procedure rejuvenates the plants and has a positive effect on the decorativeness and intensity of flowering. Basic Rules:
- the optimal time for replanting is from mid-August to mid-September, but if necessary, phlox can withstand the procedure even in the summer - the main condition for success is to prevent the roots from drying out and do everything quickly;
- For planting, choose the lateral sections of the plant, discard the old central part;
- The best time for the procedure is early morning or evening on a cloudy day;
- for good rooting, regular watering is necessary for the first two weeks;
- The roots of the plant are quite thin, so they dig it out as carefully as possible, trying not to damage the earthen ball.
Reproduction
The easiest way to get several plants at once is to divide an old bush. In addition, cuttings and growing from seeds are used.
Division
It is best to carry out the procedure after the bush has flowered, in late summer - early autumn. All inflorescences are cut off from the bush, leaving only leaves on a stem 30-40 cm high. Having carefully dug up the plant, determine the youngest sections of the rhizome and cut off sections of 5-10 shoots with a shovel or an ax. They are immediately seated in new places.
Cuttings
This type of reproduction begins in the spring, in May. Strong shoots are selected and cut off at the very base, leaving the “heel” intact - the place of attachment to the mother rhizome, which contains the rudiments of roots. The length of the cutting is about 10 cm; it is better to remove the leaves.
The cuttings are planted in a shaded bed with loose, fertile soil. To create a microclimate, cover with plastic film, regularly water, spray and ventilate. In the fall, the rooted cuttings are planted in a permanent place.
Seeds
Phlox seeds are planted in winter, in October-November, shortly before frost. Choose fresh planting material, since germination is lost very quickly.
They are planted shallowly in fertile, fertilized soil; many lard growers simply scatter them over the surface; with melt water, the seeds go into the ground themselves to the required depth. They germinate in the spring, two weeks after emergence they are picked and placed in a permanent place.
Diseases, pests
Powdery mildew is considered the most common disease of phlox paniculata. For prevention, do not allow waterlogging of the soil, thickening of bushes, or growth of weeds near the plant.
In the fight against the disease, be sure to cut and burn the affected parts, having previously treated all the bushes with one of the preparations: Topaz, Rilomil Gold, Bordeaux mixture. For prevention, spraying is carried out in the spring, before flowering.
Among viral diseases, phloxes are susceptible to infection with variegation - a violation of the color of the petals. Pathogens and vectors are nematodes and insects. Affected plants are completely broken out and destroyed.
Weakened plants are susceptible to infection with necrotic spotting, leaf curl, rust, and phomosis. Caterpillars, snails, and slugs are combated mechanically, collected by hand, and traps are installed.
On poor soils, without regular fertilizing, low bushes with small flowers grow. Lack of moisture also does not have the best effect on development - flowering in such cases is weak. Phlox cannot tolerate overheating of the roots - therefore, planting the plant in direct sun rays results in weak bushes with pale flowers.
Wintering
In order for phlox to survive the winter well, they wait until the first frosts in the fall, which will confirm that the movement of juices has stopped. After the plant sheds its leaves, the above-ground part is completely cut off. The growth buds are carefully buried with mulch, and a thick layer of soil is poured on top. In areas with harsh winters, the plant is additionally covered with spruce branches, straw, and covered with snow.
Today we are talking about phlox, these regulars and favorites of traditional Russian flower gardens. In Rus', it was affectionately called “sitchik,” apparently for its bright variety of colors. There are many types and varieties of phlox; from phlox alone you can create a chic flower garden - a floxarium. The topic of this article is phlox paniculata), which pleases us with its flowering in late summer and early autumn.
Biological features of phlox paniculata
Phlox paniculata differ in many ways - height (from 25 to 150 cm), variety of colors (their color range does not include only yellow), shape and size of inflorescences. Almost all varieties of paniculata can produce additional axillary shoots. Using this property, you can “artificially” cause their formation by pinching the central shoot, but by doing this, you should be aware that the flowering of the phlox will be a little late.
If you remove stem buds, this stimulates the faster development of additional buds on the roots and the growth of root shoots. At the end of the first season, the lower part of the stems, and then the underground part of the plant, become lignified; by the age of 4 this process intensifies. Before this time, the number of growing stems increases; it is extremely necessary to divide the plants before this time, otherwise they will bloom worse and generally look depressed.
Phlox paniculata: reproduction
By cutting off all growing buds with a “heel,” you can stimulate the development of dormant buds, which are located in the above-ground parts of the stems and on the rhizomes. This is a characteristic feature of f. paniculata, which provides several different methods of its propagation: renewal buds, root suckers, stem cuttings and plant division.
Reproduction of phlox by root shoots
When propagating phlox by root shoots, you need to dig it up and cut off the underground stolons connecting the shoots to the mother plant. Some offspring already have small roots and if they are transplanted into a separate bed in the spring, then by autumn there will be young but strong plants on it. In order for phlox to take root quickly and without problems and bloom quickly, you need to thoroughly prepare the soil for them in the garden bed - mix leaf humus, peat and river sand in equal parts.
Propagation of phlox by cuttings
Phlox are usually propagated by cuttings in May, breaking cuttings from the base of the root so that a “heel” remains on the cuttings, and the size of the cuttings should not exceed 8-10 cm. They are planted in boxes with loose nutrient soil, sprinkled with coarse river sand on top 3-centimeter layer and cover with glass or film. Every day the cuttings need to be sprayed with warm water at least 4 times, and in 20-25 days they will be ready for planting in open ground.
Phlox propagation by division
Propagate phlox by division you can either in early spring, when the first shoots are just beginning to appear, or closer to autumn - in August. The plants are carefully dug up, inspected and, using a sharp garden knife, the rhizome is divided into several parts. If you want to get abundantly flowering plants, it is better to divide them into large parts. Well, if you decide to share an interesting variety with all your friends and neighbors in the country, then you can cut the rhizomes into smaller pieces, even one stem at a time. Phloxes divided in spring bloom the same year, and flowers planted in autumn bloom the following season. Regular division of phloxes every 4-5 years rejuvenates the plant and is mandatory. It is not recommended to divide phloxes in dry, hot weather; to prevent the divisions from drying out, you can dip them in a clay and manure boot.
Phlox: planting
Most of the roots of phlox are located in the surface layer of soil at a depth of no more than 15 cm, so the soil for planting them is not dug deep. Acidic soils need liming (200 g of lime per 1 m2); it would also be good to add organic fertilizers (compost, leaf humus or well-rotted manure) in the amount of 1.5-2 buckets per 1m2. Planting holes are made 30x30 cm in size and filled with nutritious soil with the addition of complex mineral fertilizer (50-70 g per 1 m2), the distance between plants is at least 40 cm.
Phlox should be planted in late August-early September during the formation of growth buds or in the first ten days of May - at this time the cuttings take root best. When planting, the roots should be freely located in the hole, and the stem should not be deeply buried in the soil - 2-3 cm. After planting, the soil around the plants is crushed, watered and mulched.
How to fertilize phlox
The first fertilizing is carried out in early spring - 30 g of ammonium nitrate and superphosphate and half a glass of wood ash per 1 m2 are applied, fertilizers are applied before digging. It would be good to mulch the soil around the roots with a thin layer of humus (2-3 cm).
The second time, fertilizing is carried out at the end of May with nitrogen fertilizer (mineral or organic - mullein solution or ammonium nitrate).
The third feeding is done in June with the same composition as the previous one, but with the addition of 20-30 g of ash per 10 liters of water.
At the beginning of July, phloxes are fertilized for the fourth time in the same way as the third, but adding 10-15 g of superphosphate per bucket of water.
At the end of July - beginning of August, the final fifth fertilizing is carried out with complex mineral fertilizer with the addition of ash (10 g of ammonium nitrate, 20 g of superphosphate, 15 g of potassium sulfate and 30-40 g of ash).
Diseases and pests of phlox
One of the most dangerous pests of phlox is the nematode; it damages all parts of the plant - leaves, roots, stems. As a result, they become deformed, the plant loses its attractive appearance and weakens.
In addition, phlox often suffer from leaf spot, phomosis, verticillium leaf wilt, and powdery mildew. Plants affected by pests and diseases must be burned, just like phlox stems after the first frost. You can cover plants for the winter with dry peat or fallen leaves 5-10 cm thick.
Phlox paniculata is considered one of the best cultivated plants that are used in flower beds from spring to late autumn. Phlox is not picky about the environment, is frost-resistant, and most importantly, has colorful, lush inflorescences with a unique aroma. Characteristics of phlox subulate.
Phlox paniculata description
The color palette of dreamy phlox is incredibly wide:
- purple,
- carmine,
- scarlet,
- dark purple,
- with dots,
- eyes,
- headbands,
- shadow spots, etc.
The diameter of the flower can be either small -2.5 cm or large -4 cm.
Phlox paniculata, varieties in the photo
Phlox paniculata amazes with its beauty and originality. The bush inflorescence of phlox paniculata can be used not only in landscape design, but also in the improvement of flower beds. Phlox is superior to most cultivated plants in its external qualities. And the variety of varieties allows you to make the garden unique and as unique as possible. Phlox paniculata comes in the following varieties:
- phlox paniculata success
- phlox paniculata red riding hood
- phlox paniculata sherbet cocktail
- phlox paniculata traviata
- phlox paniculata blue paradise
- phlox paniculata orange perfection
- phlox paniculata sherbet blend
- Varieties with female names:
- phlox paniculata Tequila Sunrise
- Phlox paniculata Europe
- phlox paniculata forget-me-not
- phlox paniculata king
- phlox paniculata strawberry daiquiri
- phlox paniculata Gzhel
- Phlox paniculata Red Caribbean
- phlox bright eyes paniculata
- phlox paniculata pur fillings
- phlox paniculata candy twist
- phlox lizzy paniculata
- phlox paniculata little fight
- phlox paniculata picasso
- Phlox paniculata Düsterloe
- phlox paniculata Niki
- phlox paniculata Ural tales
- Phlox paniculata Winter morning
- phlox paniculata aureole
- paniculate phlox folk
- Phlox paniculata Tiara
- Phlox paniculata David
- Phlox paniculata Egorka
- Phlox paniculata Dragon
- phlox paniculata Apple tree color
- Phlox paniculata white
- phlox paniculata mystic green
The unsurpassed grace of phlox paniculata flowers “Success”
Paniculate phlox will add lightness to any composition in the garden. It can also be combined with other perennial crops.
Phlox paniculata "Sherbet blend"
Phlox paniculata "Gzhel" attracts with its simplicity and tenderness
Phlox paniculata will make the image of a garden plot unique and unforgettable. It can be used as an accent in a flower bed or as a main plant.
Intricate forms of phlox “Ural Tales”
Soft color and delicate outlines - this is the “People's” paniculate phlox
Today, an incredible number of varieties of paniculata phlox have been bred; more than 2.5 thousand varieties of phlox are sold in the Russian Federation alone. Unfortunately, the domestic variety has not yet been developed.
Bright and juicy color of phlox “Dragon”
Phlox paniculata “Apple blossom” enchants with its tenderness
Phlox paniculata, planting and care
It is better to transplant paniculata phlox in the summer, but the growth of the plant will be significantly slowed down.
During the flowering season, paniculate phlox grows a lush green mass, and also spends a huge amount of energy on flowering. By the way, the flowering period of paniculate phlox begins in the spring and can last until the beginning of autumn, with a break of one month (in July). For this reason, the plant should be fed with both root and non-root additives in order to improve the condition of the flower.
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