Origin
Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) is a hybrid plant that originated from the United States. It was created by crossing Phlox glaberrima and Phlox maculata. The plant is also commonly known as sticky phlox due to its sticky leaves and stems.
Common names
Aside from sticky phlox, Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) is also known by a few other common names, including clump phlox, smooth phlox, and phlox with sticky foliage.
Uses
The plant is mainly used for ornamental purposes. It is highly valued for its bright and colorful flowers which are commonly pink, purple, or white. Sticky phlox is often used in garden beds and borders, and it blooms in early to mid-summer, providing a unique and vibrant touch to any landscaping project.
General appearance
Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) grows in clumps which typically reach a height of 2-3 feet and can spread up to 2 feet wide. The plant has a bushy and compact habit, with narrow and lance-shaped leaves that are dark green and sticky to the touch. Its flowers are arranged in dense clusters and have five petals that form a tube-shape, giving the flower a distinctive appearance. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Growth Conditions for Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.)
The Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) is a hybrid species between Phlox drummondii Hook. and Phlox cuspidata Pursh. It is commonly known as sticky phlox because of the adhesive quality of its foliage. This species is native to the south-central region of the United States and is easy to grow in gardens and landscapes. To ensure proper growth and development, it is essential to provide optimal growth conditions.
Light Requirements
The sticky phlox thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of adequate sunlight can cause poor growth and weak stems. On the other hand, too much sun exposure can cause scorching of the foliage, especially during hot summer months. Therefore, a location with partial shade during afternoon hours is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The sticky phlox is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers warm temperatures of between 60°F and 80°F during the growing season. During the cold winter months, the plant becomes dormant and can withstand temperatures as low as 20°F. Temperatures below 20°F can damage the plant's roots, leading to stunted growth or death.
Soil Requirements
The sticky phlox prefers well-draining, moist soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in various soil types, including loamy soils, sandy soils, and clay soils. However, the plant can't tolerate waterlogged soils as they can drown the roots. It is essential to ensure proper drainage by incorporating organic matter such as compost into the soil. Maintaining the soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation methods for Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl.
Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. is a hardy plant that grows well in temperate climates.
It prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
The plant is not too particular about soil type as long as it is not excessively wet or dry.
Be sure to plant Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. in an area with full sun exposure, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering needs for Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl.
Keep the soil of the plant consistently moist but not waterlogged.
It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Water deeply once a week or more depending on the weather conditions.
During periods of drought, drought-stressed plants may prefer watering on a daily basis.
Fertilization for Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl.
Fertilize Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Avoid fertilizer burn by keeping the fertilizer off the leaves and stems of the plant.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount of fertilizer to use.
Pruning for Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl.
Prune Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. in the early spring to remove any damaged or diseased growth.
Deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season will encourage a longer blooming period.
Trim back any leggy growth to promote bushier growth, but avoid cutting into the woody stems of the plant.
Propagation of Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.)
Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) is a hybrid species of perennial plant commonly used for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods, including:
Division
Division is the most common and easiest method of propagating Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.). This method is done in early spring to ensure that the new plants have enough time to establish themselves before the next growing season. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the root clumps into smaller pieces. Each piece should have at least one stem with leaves and a healthy root system. Replant the divided clumps in well-draining soil and water thoroughly.
Cutting
Cutting is another method of propagating Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) that involves taking a stem cutting from a healthy and mature plant. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem from the parent plant that is about four inches long and has at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving two leaves at the top, and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water until the soil is moist. Keep the cutting in a warm and bright spot out of direct sunlight and mist it regularly until roots start to develop. Once rooted, transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the garden.
Seeds
Propagation of Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) can also be done through seeds. This method is best done in late fall or early winter when the plant naturally drops its seeds. Collect the seeds from the plant and store them in a cool and dry place until spring planting. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, cover with a thin layer of soil, and water. Keep the soil moist and wait for the seeds to germinate, which usually takes two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to a larger container or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
The plant Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) is susceptible to various diseases that can cause damage to the plant. The most common diseases that affect this plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem rot.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to other diseases. To manage powdery mildew, the affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular lesions on the leaves. As the disease progresses, the leaves turn yellow and drop off. To manage leaf spot, the affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Stem rot: Stem rot is a fungal disease that affects the stems of the plant, causing them to turn brown and wilt. To manage stem rot, affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Phlox ×glutinosa Buckl. (pro sp.) can also be affected by various pests that can cause damage to the plant. The most common pests that affect this plant are spider mites and aphids.
Spider mites: Spider mites are small pests that can cause extensive damage to the plant by sucking its sap. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, the plant should be sprayed with water to dislodge the pests. In severe cases, insecticides can be used to control their population.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. They can also transmit diseases to the plant. To manage aphids, the plant should be sprayed with water to dislodge the pests. In severe cases, insecticides can be used to control their population.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation can help prevent the spread of damage. Maintaining good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, can also help keep the plant healthy and resistant to diseases and pests.
