Plant Description:
Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Phlox family (Polemoniaceae). The plant typically grows 2-6 inches tall and spreads 6-18 inches wide. It has woody stems that are covered with small leaves and produces showy pink or lavender flowers. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Origin:
Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii is native to western North America, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats such as sagebrush steppe, mountain slopes, and alpine meadows. It is commonly found in the intermountain region of the United States, from Washington and Oregon south to California and east to Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as Hood's phlox, mountain phlox, and desert phlox. It is also called Santa Fe phlox, as it is found in the Santa Fe area of New Mexico.
Uses:
Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii is largely used for ornamental purposes in rock gardens, dry gardens, and xeriscapes. It is an attractive groundcover that adds color to dry landscapes. The plant is drought-tolerant and requires low maintenance, making it an ideal plant for water-wise gardening. The flowers also attract bees and butterflies.
Light Requirements
Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii thrives in full sunlight. It is best to grow this plant in areas with unobstructed sunlight since it requires intense radiation to reach its optimal growth. If planted in an area with insufficient light intensity, the plant may not grow to its full potential and may become susceptible to insect and disease attacks.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii requires low temperatures. It grows best in areas with an average minimum temperature of 10 °F (-12.2 °C) and an average maximum temperature of 70 °F (21.1 °C). The plant cannot tolerate temperatures above 70 °F (21.1 °C) and may produce low-quality flowers if grown in such conditions. If you are growing the plant indoors, it is important to provide adequate ventilation, or else the temperature may rise beyond the plant's tolerance level.
Soil Requirements
Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soils. If planted in poorly drained soils, the plant may develop root rot, which could lead to its death. Additionally, soils that are too acidic may reduce nutrient uptake, leading to stunted growth and poor flower quality. It is recommended to amend soils with compost or other organic matter to improve the structure and fertility of the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Phlox hoodii Richards ssp. hoodii is a beautiful plant that can flourish in different growing conditions. It thrives in well-draining soils, which is why mixing coarse sand, perlite, or vermiculite with potting mix can improve drainage. Planting in pots or raised beds with adequate drainage holes can also prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
The plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. When grown in shade, it may produce fewer flowers and grow taller with a spindly appearance. If planting in a garden bed, ensure the soil is free from weeds and well-cultivated to reduce competition for nutrients and water.
Watering Needs
Phlox hoodii Richards ssp. hoodii is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive with minimal watering. However, regular watering can promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Water the plant every three to four days, depending on the weather conditions, soil type, and pot size. Watering should be done at the base of the plant and not on the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.
During the summer months, the plant may need more water, especially if grown in a container or a hot and dry climate. Adding mulch around the plant can help retain moisture in the soil, reduce evaporation, and suppress weed growth.
Fertilization
Phlox hoodii Richards ssp. hoodii is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. Applying fertilizer once or twice a year is sufficient to provide the necessary nutrients for growth and flowering. The best time to fertilize is during the planting season and after the flowering season has ended.
Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can cause leggy growth and reduce the number of flowers. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label for the correct dosage and application method.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of Phlox hoodii Richards ssp. hoodii. It can also encourage more compact growth and increased flowering. Pruning should be done after the flowering season has ended, usually in late summer or early fall.
Use sharp pruning shears to remove dead or yellowing leaves, stems, and spent flower heads. Cut back the plant to about two-thirds of its original height, leaving some leaves to provide energy for the plant to grow back.
Regular pruning can prevent the plant from becoming too bushy and overcrowded, which can attract pests and diseases. It can also help maintain the plant’s neat appearance and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii
Propagating Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii can be done through a variety of methods, including division, stem cuttings, and seed.
Division
One of the easiest ways to propagate Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii is through division. This is typically done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not blooming. To divide the plant, dig up the entire plant and separate the roots into sections that each have their own shoot or bud. Replant each section in a new location, making sure to water the newly transplanted divisions well.
Stem Cuttings
Another way to propagate Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii is through stem cuttings. This method is typically done in late summer or early fall when the plant is not blooming. Take stem cuttings that are 4-6 inches long and strip the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of each cutting. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and place them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, bright location until roots form and new growth appears.
Seed
Propagation of Phlox hoodii Richards. ssp. hoodii can also be done through seed. Seeds can be collected from the plant once the flowers have faded and the seed capsules have formed. These can be sown directly into the ground in the fall or in early spring.
Alternatively, the seeds can be stored in a cool, dry location until they are ready to be sown. To start indoors, sow the seeds in flats or trays using a well-draining potting mix. It's best to start the seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Keep the soil moist and in a sunny location. Transplant outdoors once the seedlings have 2-3 true leaves and all danger of frost has passed.
Disease Management for Phlox hoodii ssp. hoodii
One common disease that affects Phlox hoodii is powdery mildew, which is identified by a white or grayish powder-like substance on the leaves. This fungal disease tends to occur in humid or dry conditions, so reducing the humidity around the plant can help to prevent this disease. Additionally, watering from below the leaves rather than from above can help to prevent powdery mildew. If powdery mildew is already present, applying a fungicide can help to manage the disease.
Another disease that may affect Phlox hoodii is leaf spot, which is identified by brown or black spots on the leaves. This disease can occur in wet conditions, so providing good air circulation around the plant can help to prevent the disease. If leaf spot is present, removing and destroying the infected leaves can help to manage the disease.
Pest Management for Phlox hoodii ssp. hoodii
One common pest that affects Phlox hoodii is spider mites, which are identified by fine webbing and tiny, spotted insects on the leaves. These pests tend to thrive in dry conditions, so regularly misting the plant can help to prevent an infestation. If spider mites are present, applying insecticidal soap can help to manage the pest.
Another pest that may affect Phlox hoodii is thrips, which are identified by tiny, slender insects on the leaves. These pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant tissue, so using sticky traps around the plant can help to prevent an infestation. If thrips are present, applying a pesticide specifically designed for thrips can help to manage the pest.
