Origin
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin, also known as Siberian Phlox, originates from the Northern regions of North America.
Common Names
The common names for Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis include Siberian Phlox, Northern Blue Phlox, and Wherry's Phlox.
Uses
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis is a popular ornamental plant with deep blue-purple flowers. It is often used in borders, rock gardens, and as ground cover. It is also a great option for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1-2 feet tall. It has narrow dark green leaves and produces clusters of fragrant, deep blue-purple flowers in mid to late spring. The plant likes full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.
Light Requirements
Phlox sibirica var. borealis prefers to be placed in full sun to partial shade. When placed in full sun, it blooms more heavily and develops a more compact growth habit. However, partial shade is recommended in areas with hot summer temperatures as excessive sun can cause leaf scorch or dehydration.
Temperature Requirements
Phlox sibirica var. borealis is a cold-hardy perennial plant that can tolerate temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C). It is generally adaptable to a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in cool conditions with an average temperature range of 50-60°F (10-15.6°C). In warmer climates, it may go dormant during the summer months to survive the high temperatures and reduced moisture levels.
Soil Requirements
Phlox sibirica var. borealis grows best in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant requires good drainage to prevent root rot and other soil-borne diseases. It can tolerate various soil types such as clay, loam, and sandy soil but improves when cultivated in fertile loam that is consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation of Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin, commonly known as Siberian phlox, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Polemoniaceae. It is native to eastern North America and is a popular garden plant due to its stunning flowers and ease of cultivation. Here are some tips on how to cultivate Siberian phlox:
Planting
Siberian phlox should be planted in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a location that receives full sun to partial shade. It is best to plant Siberian phlox in the spring or fall when temperatures are cool.
Watering Needs
It is important to keep the soil evenly moist for the first few weeks after planting to ensure that the plant establishes well. Afterward, Siberian phlox requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
Fertilization
Siberian phlox benefits from being fertilized once or twice a year. Use a balanced granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, in the spring before the plant begins to grow and again in the early summer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing.
Pruning
To encourage a bushier growth habit, Siberian phlox can be pruned back by one-third of its height after it has finished blooming. This will also help to promote additional blooms. Remove any dead or damaged foliage regularly throughout the growing season to maintain the plant's appearance and health.
Propagation of Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin, commonly known as Siberian phlox, is a herbaceous perennial plant that produces fragrant lavender-blue flowers. The plant can be propagated through different methods including:
Division
Division is one of the easiest and most common methods for propagating Phlox sibirica. It involves the separation of the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method can be carried out during the spring or fall when the weather is cooler. To divide the plant, carefully dig up the clump and use a sharp knife or garden shovel to separate the roots. Each new section should have several shoots and a healthy root system. Transplant the divided plants into prepared holes in well-draining soil.
Cuttings
Propagating Siberian phlox from cuttings can be a bit tricky but is doable. The best time to take the cutting is in the late spring or early summer. Take a 3-4 inch cutting from the softwood portion of the stem, making sure to remove any flower buds or blooms. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and place it in a container filled with moist soilless mix. Place the container in a warm, bright location and keep the soil consistently moist until rooting occurs.
Seeds
Another way to propagate Siberian phlox is from seeds. This method requires a bit more patience and time. Collect seeds in the fall from dried flower heads. Store the seeds in a cool, dark, and dry location until spring. Plant the seeds in prepared soil and cover with a layer of soil that is twice as deep as the seed. Water the soil as needed and keep the container in a cool, bright location until the seedlings emerge.
Disease and Pest Management for Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin
Phlox sibirica L. var. borealis (Wherry) Boivin, commonly known as Siberian phlox, is a hardy perennial that is easy to care for. However, like all plants, it can be affected by diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that Siberian phlox may face and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of Siberian phlox. To manage this disease, you can try to improve air circulation around the plant by spacing them apart and cutting back any nearby overhanging branches. In addition, you can remove and discard any infected leaves or stems and apply a fungicide as a preventative measure.
2. Crown rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that can cause the plant to wilt and die. This disease is often caused by poor soil drainage, overwatering, or planting the phlox too deeply. To manage this disease, you should ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not overwatered. In addition, try to avoid planting phlox too deeply and use a fungicide as a preventative measure.
3. Virus diseases: Siberian phlox can be affected by a variety of virus diseases such as cucumber mosaic virus and tobacco mosaic virus. These diseases can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and distorted leaves. Unfortunately, there is no cure for virus diseases. To manage them, you should remove and destroy infected plants as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease to healthy plants.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap out of the leaves and stems of Siberian phlox. To manage them, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that can create webbing on the leaves and suck the sap out of the phlox. To manage them, you can try washing the plant with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Slugs and snails: Slugs and snails can cause damage to the foliage and flowers of Siberian phlox. To manage them, you can try placing a copper strip around the base of the plant or use a slug and snail bait that contains iron phosphate.
By being proactive in managing potential issues with your Siberian phlox, you can help ensure that it stays healthy and beautiful year after year.
