Origin
The Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry is a native flowering plant species found in western North America.
Common Names
The common names for this plant include Spiny Phlox, Creeping Phlox, Mojave Phlox, and Deaf Phlox.
Uses
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry is often used for its beautiful flowers and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens. The plant can also be used in medicinal preparations to treat respiratory problems and skin issues.
General Appearance
This plant has abundant, small, bright pink to lavender flowers that bloom in a cluster on top of slender stems. The leaves of the plant are narrow, pointed, and grow alternately on the stem. The stem is thin and hairy, and it can grow up to 12 inches long. The plant grows low to the ground with creeping stems and small, woody roots.
Light Requirements
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant thrives in open areas or woodland edges that receive ample sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The typical growth conditions for Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry involve a cool and dry climate. The plant can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F and up to 100°F. The best growth temperatures range from 50°F to 85°F.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can grow in a range of soil textures, including sandy loams, clay loams, and gravelly soils. The plant can also tolerate dry soils but benefits from regular watering during periods of drought.
Cultivation Methods
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. It thrives in well-drained soils in full sunlight or partially shaded areas. The plant should be planted in early spring or late fall, at a depth of about ¼ inch. It is recommended to space the plants 12-18 inches apart to avoid overcrowding.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, with an ideal range of 1-2 inches of water per week. However, during prolonged droughts, the plant may require more frequent watering to maintain its optimal growth. It's essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to the development of root rot and other fungal diseases. Watering at the base of the plant is recommended to help avoid water from getting onto the foliage.
Fertilization
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry responds well to fertilization, but it doesn't require frequent applications. A slow-release balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growth season, which is usually spring to early fall. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's directions on application rates to avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to damage to the plant's root system.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of caring for Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry. It's recommended to pinch back the stem tips of the plant by about 1 inch after it has reached a height of about six inches. This will help the plant to produce bushier growth and will also help to prevent it from becoming too tall and leggy. Deadheading spent flowers is also recommended to help promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. In the fall, it's advisable to cut back the plant to just above the ground to help ensure healthy growth the following year.
Propagation of Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry can be propagated both by seeds and cuttings. The preferred method for propagation, however, is through seed collection as the plant can readily self-seed.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds involves collecting ripe seeds from the plant during fall. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix in seed trays placed in cold frames or under a shade. The seeds germinate readily under cool temperatures and should be lightly covered with soil and kept moist. Once the seedlings have reached a height of 3-4 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then later moved to their permanent positions in the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another way of producing new plants. This method is typically used for propagating garden cultivars and not often utilized for the wildflower Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry. However, it can be done by taking stem cuttings in the summertime. Cuttings should be 3-5 inches long and taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix kept moist. After a few weeks, the cuttings should root and can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Phlox viridis E. Nels. ssp. longipes (M.E. Jones) Wherry is generally a healthy plant species, but some diseases can affect its growth and health. Below are some of the most common diseases associated with Phlox viridis and ways to manage them:
1. Powdery mildew:
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and isolate infected plants to prevent the disease from spreading. Apply fungicides to help prevent further infection. Cultural practices such as proper spacing and ventilation can also help to reduce the severity of the disease.
2. Root rot:
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering the plant and ensure that the soil drains adequately. Infected plants should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants.
3. Leaf spot diseases:
There are various types of leaf spot diseases that can affect Phlox viridis, such as Septoria leaf spot, Cercospora leaf spot, and Anthracnose. These diseases cause leaf spots and blight, leading to the yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage leaf spot diseases, remove infected plants and avoid overcrowding. Apply fungicides to prevent further infection and maintain proper sanitation practices.
Pest Management
Phlox viridis can also be affected by pests such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Below are some of the most common pests associated with Phlox viridis and ways to manage them:
1. Spider mites:
Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing of leaves and a decrease in plant vigor. To manage spider mites, apply insecticides or miticides to the affected plants. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can also help to control spider mite populations.
2. Aphids:
Aphids are soft-bodied insects that can cause stunted growth and a reduction in plant vigor. To manage aphid infestations, apply insecticidal soaps or oils to the affected plants. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can also help to control aphid populations.
3. Thrips:
Thrips are small insects that can cause distorted growth, reduced plant vigor, and reduced flower quality. To manage thrips, apply insecticidal soaps or oils to the affected plants. Encouraging natural predators such as mites or wasps can also help to control thrips populations.
