Perennial Phlox

Phlox paniculata David

• Position: full sun or partial shade
• Soil: fertile, moist soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to November
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  Phlox have always been country garden favourites for their delicious scent and attraction to butterflies and bees. This new variety has gorgeous trusses of hydrangea-like, pure white flowers which appear from July to November above dark green leaves. It is a showy perennial that forms a natural mound and looks wonderful planted near patios or paths where the scent of the flowers can be fully appreciated. It will tolerate full sun or partial shade, but like all phlox, does not like soil that dries out in summer. This vigorous variety has good resistance to powdery mildew too.
  
  
• Garden care: Support with bamboo canes, brushwood or ring stakes before the flowers appear. Phlox are greedy plants, so apply a mulch 5-7cm (2-3 in) deep of well-rotted garden compost or manure in early spring. Shear off the spent flowers to prevent reseeding. If the leaves show signs of powdery mildew, cut down to the ground and dispose of the affected foliage, but do not compost it. Clear away the debris around the plant to reduce the chances of reinfection. Cut down to the ground in autumn. Lift and divide large clumps in autumn or spring.