Overview
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Polemoniaceae. This plant is commonly known as Johnston's phlox and is native to the southern United States, specifically in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Johnston's phlox is a popular garden plant due to its bright and vibrant flowers, making it a favorite among gardeners, florists, and landscape designers.
Appearance
Johnston's phlox is a perennial herbaceous plant that can grow up to a height of 4-24 inches and a width of 4-8 inches. The leaves of Johnston's phlox are small, narrow, and lanceolate, measuring approximately 1-2 inches long. The flowers of Johnston's phlox are the plant's distinctive feature, with various color options such as pink, red, orange, purple, and white. The flower clusters are arranged in flattened disks resembling a wheel and can reach up to 2 inches in diameter.
Uses
Johnston's phlox is a versatile plant that serves a variety of purposes. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens, where it is particularly popular as a bedding plant. Johnston's phlox is also utilized in wildflower gardens and rock gardens due to its hardiness and adaptability to adverse soil conditions. Moreover, Johnston's phlox serves as a crucial source of nectar for various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
In addition, Johnston's phlox has been used medicinally by indigenous populations for centuries. The plant extract is traditionally used to treat various conditions such as coughs, sore throats, fevers, and headaches. Modern pharmacological research has also shown the potential of Johnston's phlox extract to have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
Finally, Johnston's phlox can be used to create beautiful and vibrant floral arrangements due to its bright and vivid colors. Florists and home decorators often include Johnston's phlox in their floral creations, where the flower clusters serve as an excellent filler as well as focal points.
Light Conditions
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii typically requires full sun to partial shade. As such, it is best planted in areas where it will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, in hotter climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial to prevent scorching.
Temperature Requirements
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii is an adaptable plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. It can survive freezing temperatures, but extended periods of cold weather can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii prefers well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter. If the soil is too compact, it can hinder the plant's growth. Adding compost or other organic matter can improve soil drainage and fertility.
Cultivation
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry, also known as Johnston's phlox, is a herbaceous annual plant that is native to the southwestern United States. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure, but can tolerate partial shade as well. It is commonly grown in gardens, containers or as a cut flower and requires regular cleaning of any weeds or dead leaves to maintain its aesthetic appeal. It is best planted after the last frost, typically in late spring, and cultivars are available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, purple, blue, and red.
Watering Needs
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry requires moderate watering, about 1 inch of water per week. Its soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as this will lead to root rot. Overhead watering should be avoided, as it can promote the spread of disease. Instead, the plant should be watered at the base. During periods of hot, dry weather, additional watering may be necessary to prevent wilting and maintain healthy growth.
Fertilization
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry benefits from regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and bright blooms. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the plant every two to three weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, a liquid fertilizer can be applied every two weeks. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry requires minimal pruning, but deadheading should be performed regularly to promote continued blooming. This can be done by removing spent flowers using pruning shears or by pinching them off by hand. However, it is important not to over-prune, as this can damage the plant and reduce its overall vitality. Additionally, cutting back the plant in the fall will help it prepare for winter dormancy and lead to healthier growth in the following season.
Propagation of Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry can be propagated by various methods. Some of the common propagation methods include:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most successful method of propagating Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds in the early spring or late fall when the soil temperature is at least 18 °C (65°F). Seeds should be sown on a prepared seedbed or in individual pots. When sowing the seeds on a seedbed, ensure that soil is damp but not muddy. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil (approximately 1/8 inch) and water thoroughly. Seeds should germinate in 7-21 days depending on the temperature and moisture level.
Cuttings
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry can also be propagated using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from new growth or green parts of the plant. Cutting should be 3-6 inches long and about 1/4 inch in diameter, then dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be watered lightly and covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight and maintain moderate moisture. After several weeks, the rooting of cuttings should occur, and the young plants can be transplanted to a larger pot.
Division
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii (Wherry) Wherry can also be propagated by dividing the plant. Division is best done in the spring or fall before the plant starts growing again. Dig up the plant and gently separate the clumps into sections with sharp and clean scissors. To maintain the health of the plant during division, ensure that each clump has some healthy roots and foliage. Immediately after division, replant the divided clumps in watered soil. During the following weeks, ensure that the soil is moist till the plant is established.
Disease Management
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii is susceptible to various plant diseases that affect its growth, productivity, and quality. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, root rot, and damping-off. To manage these diseases, you can take the following measures:
- Practice crop rotation
- Plant disease-resistant varieties
- Remove and burn infected plants
- Use fungicides and bactericides to control the spread of diseases
- Avoid overhead irrigation to prevent the spread of fungal spores
Pest Management
Phlox drummondii Hook. ssp. johnstonii is also prone to pests that can damage the plant significantly. The common pests that might affect the plant are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To manage these pests, you can take the following measures:
- Use pest-resistant varieties
- Use sticky traps to monitor pest populations
- Handpick and destroy pests when possible
- Use insecticides to control the spread of pests
- Encourage natural predators of pests, such as ladybugs and lacewings
It is worth noting that the use of chemical pesticides and fungicides should be the last resort as they can harm beneficial insects, wildlife, and the environment. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations when using pesticides and fungicides and use protective clothing to avoid exposure to chemicals.
