Introduction
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry, also known as compact phlox, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Polemoniaceae. It is a sub-species of Phlox viridis, which is native to North America.Origin
Compact phlox is native to the Great Plains region of the United States, where it can be found in prairies, meadows, and open fields. It is commonly found in Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.Common Names
Compact phlox is also known as prairie phlox, green phlox, and moss phlox.Appearance
Compact phlox is a low-growing perennial plant that forms dense mats of foliage. The leaves are linear to narrowly lance-shaped and vary in color from bright green to grayish-green. The flowers of compact phlox are star-shaped and can be pink, purple, or white. They bloom in mid to late spring and are typically two inches or less in diameter.Uses
Compact phlox is often planted in rock gardens, border fronts, and dry areas. It is a popular choice for use in xeriscaping due to its low water requirements. Compact phlox attracts butterflies and other pollinators and is also deer-resistant. In addition, some Native American tribes have traditionally used Phlox viridis for medicinal purposes, to treat a variety of ailments such as mouth sores and diarrhea.Light Requirements
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It can grow in full shade, but the plant will not perform as well and may become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta is native to the western United States and grows best in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. It is adapted to cool to temperate climates and prefers temperatures between 55-75 °F (12-24 °C).
Soil Requirements
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils that are high in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but prefers a neutral soil pH of 6.5-7.5. The plant will not perform well in poorly drained or heavy clay soils.
Cultivation
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry requires a well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level. It is recommended to grow it in full sun to partial shade, in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry soil conditions once established.
Watering Needs
When starting with a young plant, ensure the soil stays consistently moist for the first three to four weeks. Once established, you can reduce watering, and only water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and decrease plant health.
Fertilization
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry benefits from consistent fertilization during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. It's ideal to fertilize once every three weeks, but take care not to over-fertilize, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and weak stems. Once the flowering season is over, stop fertilizing to prepare the plant for the winter season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry but can be beneficial if you wish to control its shape or propagate it. After the first season, pinch new growth in the early spring to promote bushier growth. Deadheading spent blooms can also extend the flowering season and encourage the plant to produce new flowers. Every three to four years, the plant requires division to maintain its vigor and fullness.
Propagation of Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta is propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, stem cutting, and division. Each method has its own requirements and benefits, and the choice of propagation method depends on the grower's preference and the availability of the plant material.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed is the most common method for Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta. The plant produces small, hard seeds that can be sown in the soil in the fall or early spring. For best results, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate, and once they have sprouted, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation through stem cutting is another option for Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants during the active growing season. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and should have several leaves attached to them. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They should be kept in a warm, humid environment and watered regularly. After several weeks, the cuttings should root and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the entire plant and separate it into smaller sections, making sure each section has a healthy root system. Replant the divided plants in a well-draining soil mix, and be sure to keep the soil moist for several weeks until the plants become established. Division is a good way to propagate Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta as it allows the grower to produce multiple plants from a single parent plant.
Disease Management
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry is susceptible to various diseases, including:
- Phytophthora – This is a soil-borne pathogen that can cause root rot. To manage this, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. You can also use fungicides to treat the infected plant.
- Powdery Mildew – This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this, avoid overhead watering and ensure proper air circulation in the plant. You can also use fungicides to treat the infected plant.
- Botrytis – This is a fungal disease that affects the flowers and leaves of the plant, causing them to rot. To manage this, ensure that the plant has proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected parts of the plant.
Pest Management
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. compacta (Brand) Wherry is also susceptible to various pests, including:
- Aphids – These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage this, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the infected plant.
- Spider Mites – These are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage this, you can wash the leaves with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Thrips – These are small insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers, causing distortion and discoloration. To manage this, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the infected plant.
