| I have 2 different types (colors) of phlox paniculata situated in a sunny area that have never bloomed in the three years they have been there. I had other flowers surrounding them but last fall removed most of them so that they would have more air circulation and space but still no blooms. I have had some problems with powdery mildew but this year I treated them with a natural home spray and that seemed to help. The plants seem healthy and the foliage nice and lush,just wondering if you could tell me possibly why they are not blooming. |
| That's a bit of a puzzle, but it may simply be too early in the summer yet, especially if they seem healthy. Removing the competing plants and increasing the air circulation certainly sound like you've done the right things. These plants tend to be a mid to late summer performer. To encourage the best blooms, plant them in full sun in rich soil that stays evenly moist but not soggy. Keep them mulched to help the soil stay cool and moist. Thin to about five main stems in early spring, side dress occasionally with compost and once or twice with a balanced granular fertilizer, and divide about every third year to keep the plants vigorous. Let's hope you get a great show in a few weeks! |
