Origin
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora, commonly known as Rocky Mountain Phlox, is a native plant species of the western United States, specifically found in the Rocky Mountains and surrounding areas. The plant can be found at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet
Common Names
In addition to Rocky Mountain Phlox, Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora may also be referred to as Many-flowered Phlox or Rocky Mountain Phlox.
Appearance
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora has a distinctive appearance that makes it easy to identify. The plant grows as a perennial and typically reaches heights of 4 to 12 inches. The stems are green and often hairy, with narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 2 inches in length. The flowers of Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora are white, pink, or lavender and grow in dense clusters on top of the stems. Each flower has five rounded petals that are fused at the base, and a small, slender tube in the center.
Uses
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is commonly used in ornamental gardening due to its attractive appearance and easy growth habits. The plant is also used medicinally by some Native American tribes to treat a variety of ailments, including sore throats, coughs, and stomach pains. The leaves of the plant can be made into a tea or a poultice, while the roots are used in traditional medicine to aid in childbirth.
Light
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora prefers full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some shade. In areas with hot summers, a little afternoon shade would be beneficial. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily is recommended for optimal growth and flowering.
Soil
The plant grows well in average to fertile well-drained soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, with good water-holding capacity. Sandy or clay loam soils are the best for this plant, while heavy clay soils should be avoided.
Temperature
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora thrives in temperate climates. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75°F (15.5 to 24°C), although it can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C) during its dormancy period. Hot and humid climates may cause leaf spot and powdery mildew, which can harm the plant.
Water
The plant prefers moderate moisture levels, but it cannot tolerate wet feet. It's important not to overwater the plant, especially during the winter months. Watering every 7 to 10 days, providing about 1 inch of water, is generally enough for this plant. However, during hot and dry periods, the frequency should be increased.
Fertilizer
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora prefers a slow-release balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, right before new growth starts. In general, it's necessary to feed the plant only once a year. However, if the soil is poor, a second application may be required in late summer.
Cultivation Methods
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is an easy-to-grow plant species that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is also susceptible to root rot, so ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
You can propagate Phlox multiflora through seeds or cuttings. Sow the seeds during early spring, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings establish.
For vegetative propagation, take stem cuttings in mid-summer and dip the cut ends in rooting hormones before planting in moist soil. You can move the young plants to permanent pots or beds once they have established well.
Watering Needs
Phlox multiflora requires moderate watering. Water the plants deeply once a week during the growing season as the top inch of soil dries out. However, irrigate sparingly during winter or rainy periods to prevent waterlogging.
Ensure to water the base and not the leaves to reduce the chances of fungal infection. Also, avoid watering during the hottest time of the day to prevent evaporation.
Fertilization
Phlox multiflora requires medium levels of nutrients to grow and bloom optimally. Fertilize the plants annually during spring or early summer using a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK fertilizers).
Apply the fertilizer at a rate of 1/2 lbs per 100 square feet of the plant bed area. Alternatively, you can apply compost or well-rotted manure, which aids in promoting soil fertility and water retention.
Pruning
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is a low-growing perennial plant with a sprawling habit. Prune the plants after blooming in late summer or early fall just above the first set of leaves to encourage bushier growth.
Scrub off any spent flowers regularly to aid in extending the blooming period. If the plants become leggy, pinch off the growing tips during mid-summer to encourage side shoots.
Propagation of Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is a native North American plant species that can be propagated by several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora from seeds is a straightforward process. The seeds are typically harvested when the plant has finished blooming and the seed pods have ripened. Sow them in a well-draining soil mixture, and make sure to keep the soil damp until the seedlings have become established.
Division Propagation
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora can be propagated by dividing an existing plant during the spring or fall. The plant should be dug up and gently separated into smaller clumps, making sure that each clump has several healthy stems and roots. Replant the divided clumps in a well-draining soil mixture.
Root Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora can also be done through root cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring when the plant is actively growing. Cut a section of the root, making sure that it has at least one stem and several healthy roots. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and keep it damp until it has become established.
Disease and Pest Management for Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora
Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is a beautiful and popular plant that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is crucial to ensure the health and longevity of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected foliage and provide good air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Another common disease is verticillium wilt, which is caused by soil-borne fungi. Symptoms of this disease include wilting, yellowing, and browning of leaves, as well as stunted growth. To manage verticillium wilt, remove and destroy the affected plants, do not replant in the same area for at least five years, and improve soil drainage and fertility.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora include spider mites and aphids. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that suck the sap out of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that also suck the sap out of the plant and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves.
To manage spider mites and aphids, spray the plant with a strong blast of water to remove the pests. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Regular inspection and maintenance of the Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora plant can help prevent and manage disease and pest issues. By taking proper precautions and implementing an effective disease and pest management plan, you can keep your Phlox multiflora A. Nels. ssp. multiflora plant healthy and beautiful for years to come.
