Phlox is not one of the high-maintenance and sensitive plants, but unfortunately it is also not immune to typical plant diseases. Nevertheless, it is impossible to imagine a colorful summer garden without it. It is worth good care with its rich flowers.
How to protect phlox from powdery mildew?
To protect phlox from powdery mildew, remove infected parts of the plant, avoid fertilizing rich in nitrogen and ensure sufficient moisture. If the infestation is severe, remove the entire plant and use mildew-resistant varieties such as Phlox amplifolia.
What can you do to combat mildew?
Remove affected plant parts thoroughly. They do not belong in the compost but should be disposed of in the trash so that the mildew cannot be passed on to other plants. If there is a severe infestation of powdery mildew, it is best to remove the entire plant. There should no longer be a flame flower in this place for some time. It is better to choose a new location for your replacement plants.
Preventing mildew
He althy plants are less susceptible to diseases and pests. That's why it's best to take good care of your phlox. Be careful not to let the soil dry out too much. You can achieve this not only with regular watering but also with mulching. Do not fertilize your Phlox with too much nitrogen, otherwise its resistance will also suffer.
Is there powdery mildew resistant phlox?
There are definitely phlox that are largely resistant to powdery mildew. These varieties include, for example, Phlox amplifolia, also called large-leaf phlox. It is very robust and resistant to various diseases. It also tolerates drought and heat quite well. The pyramidal plume is also relatively resistant to mildew and is also a good cut flower.
The most important things in brief:
- cut off affected plant parts
- remove severely infested plants completely
- Do not dispose of in compost
Tips & Tricks
After an infestation with powdery mildew, do not plant phlox there again in the near future, the risk of a new infestation is too great or choose a variety that is resistant to powdery mildew.