Origin
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin, commonly known as Alaskan phlox, is a herbaceous perennial plant species native to Alaska and parts of Canada.
Common Names
Alaskan phlox is also known by various other common names, including Siberian phlox, Alaska phlox, and Northern phlox.
Uses
The Alaskan phlox is a popular ornamental plant in gardens across North America and Europe. It is also used as a medicinal plant by various indigenous communities of Alaska and Canada. The plant has been traditionally used to treat different types of ailments such as colds, coughs, and sore throats.
General Appearance
The Alaskan phlox has a dense and mounding habit, with foliage reaching a height of up to 1 foot. The plant produces clusters of small, lilac-purple flowers that bloom in the late spring or early summer. The flowers have a distinct fragrance, which attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The Alaskan phlox thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Light Requirements
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin requires full sunlight or partially shaded areas to grow successfully. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is recommended for optimal growth and flowering. Inadequate light can lead to leggy growth and sparse blooms in the plants.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in cool to moderately warm temperatures ranging from 18 to 22°C (64.4 to 71.6°F) during the day and 10 to 15°C (50 to 59°F) during the night. Extreme heat or cold can adversely affect growth by causing the leaves to wilt or turn brown. Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin is hardy in USDA zones 1 through 7.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0, rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. The ideal soil type for the plant is loamy with good nutrient-holding capacity. It can tolerate slightly acidic to moderately alkaline soils, but it performs best in neutral to slightly acidic conditions. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the soil before planting can improve soil fertility and enhance plant growth.
Cultivation methods
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to plant this species in a location with good air circulation and to avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to issues with disease and pests. Planting can take place in either spring or fall.
Watering needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. It is vital to ensure the soil stays evenly moist but not waterlogged to avoid rotting of roots. Reduce watering in the fall to prepare the plant for dormancy during winter.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from an application of fertilizer in the spring, as this helps promote healthy growth and blooms. A slow-release, balanced fertilizer is ideal, and it should be worked into the soil around the base of the plant. Only a moderate amount of fertilizer is necessary, as using too much can lead to excessive foliage and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin can benefit from occasional pruning to encourage bushier growth and prevent it from becoming too straggly. Deadhead regularly after blooming, by removing spent blooms to encourage repeat blooms. Cut back the entire plant to the ground level in fall or early spring to remove the old, dead growth and to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin is a beautiful plant species that can be propagated easily using different methods. The plant is a member of the Polemoniaceae family and is found in wetlands, meadows, and alpine zones. The plant flowers in May and June, producing clusters of pink or purple flowers that add a splash of color to any garden.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the best method for propagating Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin. The best time to sow seeds is in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be stratified for 4-6 weeks to improve germination. This can be done by mixing the seeds with moist peat moss or vermiculite and placing them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator at 4°C.
After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a seed-raising mix in small trays or pots. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently. The trays or pots should be kept in a sunny spot and watered regularly. The seeds should germinate in about 2-3 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin. This method involves dividing a mature plant into smaller sections and replanting them as separate plants.
The best time to divide the plant is in the spring before it starts to grow. Gently dig up the plant, being careful not to damage the roots. Use a sharp knife to divide the plant into sections, making sure each section has some healthy roots and shoots. Replant the sections immediately in a well-draining soil mix, water well, and keep in a shaded area until they are established.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another way of propagating Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin. This method involves taking a cutting from a healthy plant and rooting it to form a new plant.
The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth. Select a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and keep in a shaded area until the cutting forms roots.
Propagation of Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin is an easy and rewarding process. With the right conditions and care, the plant will thrive, adding beauty to your garden.
Disease Management
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin can suffer from various fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Powdery mildew: This disease is evident by the white powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plants. It can cause leaves to curl, yellow, and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to promote good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also help manage this disease.
- Leaf spots: Leaf spot diseases cause circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves of the plant. These spots can be brown, gray, or black. To manage leaf spots, it is important to remove any infected leaves from the plant and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. The plant can appear wilted and stunted, and the roots will be brown or black. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering, and consider using fungicides.
Pest Management
Phlox sibirica L. var. alaskensis (Jordal) Boivin can also suffer from various pest problems. The most common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause leaves to turn yellow and curl. To manage aphids, you can spray the plant with a strong jet of water, use insecticidal soaps, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap out of leaves causing them to turn yellow and dry up. They produce a fine webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to promote good air circulation, remove any infected leaves from the plant, and use insecticidal soaps.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of moths. They feed on the stems of the plant, causing them to wilt and fall over. To manage cutworms, it is important to remove any infected plants and till the soil before planting to expose the larvae to predators and other environmental factors.
