Pollination Information for Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop, scientific name Phlox paniculata 'Ditomdre', is a pollinator-friendly plant that attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to your garden. Since it is a cultivar of the native plant Phlox paniculata, it is well adapted to support diverse pollinator species.

As a member of the Polemoniaceae family, Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop has perfect flowers with both male and female parts. It is primarily pollinated by bees, with bumblebees being the most frequent visitor. Butterflies, such as Eastern tiger swallowtails and painted ladies, also contribute to its pollination.

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop blooms in summer and early fall, producing clusters of fragrant pink and coral flowers that have a tubular shape. The nectar and pollen of these flowers are easily accessible to pollinators due to their open architecture.

To ensure successful pollination of Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop, it is important to provide a supportive environment for pollinators. This can be achieved by planting it in a sunny location with well-draining soil, and avoiding the use of pesticides that may harm beneficial insects. Adding a diversity of flowering plants to your garden can also help attract and support a variety of pollinators.

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop (Phlox paniculata 'Ditomdre') FAQ

General Information

What is Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop is a herbaceous perennial plant with clusters of coral-pink flowers with cream-colored centers. It belongs to the Phlox paniculata species and its cultivar name is Ditomdre.

What are some characteristics of Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

• Height: 18-20 Inches
• Width: 18-20 Inches
• Bloom Time: Midsummer to Late Summer
• Bloom Color: Coral-Pink with Cream-Color Centers
• Foliage Color: Green
• Sunlight: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil: Well-Drained
• Moisture: Medium
• Hardiness Zones: 4-8

Planting and Care

How do I plant Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop can be planted in either spring or fall, but preferably in spring. Choose a location in full sun to part shade with well-drained soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the plant's pot and about the same depth. Loosen the roots of the plant and position it in the hole so the top of the roots are level with the soil surface. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp down to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

How do I care for Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

• Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
• Fertilizer: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer.
• Pruning: After the bloom has finished, cut the stems back to the level of new growth. This will encourage bushier growth and prevent the plant from getting leggy.
• Dividing: Every few years, it may be necessary to divide the plant to prevent overcrowding. This is best done in early spring.
• Winter Protection: In colder climates, apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late fall to protect the roots from freezing temperatures.

Propagation

How do I propagate Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop can be propagated through division, seed or cuttings.

• Division: Every few years, it may be necessary to divide the plant to prevent overcrowding. This is best done in early spring. Dig up the plant and separate the roots into multiple sections. Replant each section.
• Seed: Collect seeds from the plant after the blooms have faded and the seed pods have turned brown. Sow the seeds in a container or directly in the garden in fall or early spring.
• Cuttings: Take stem cuttings in early summer. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and place in a container with moist soil. Keep the container in a shaded area and water regularly until new growth appears.

Pests and Diseases

What pests and diseases affect Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop?

• Pests: Spider mites, leafhoppers, and thrips.
• Diseases: Powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.

Prevention and control of these pests and diseases include monitoring the plant regularly, removing any infected or damaged leaves, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged, and providing good air circulation around the plant.

Planting & Care for Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop (Phlox paniculata 'Ditomdre')

Planting: Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop should be planted in a full sun to partial shade location with well-drained soil. Space each plant about 18-24 inches apart.

Care: In order to keep your Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop healthy and thriving, here are a few helpful care tips:

• Watering: Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop should be watered regularly, keeping the soil moist but not overly wet. This plant is fairly drought tolerant, so it can handle a little dryness.
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season in order to help your Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop produce the most vibrant blooms.
• Pruning: After blooming, prune your Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop down to the ground. This will help promote new growth and keep the plant healthy.
• Pests/Diseases: Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop can fall victim to powdery mildew, so it's important to keep the foliage dry and healthy. It's also important to keep an eye out for any aphid infestations, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.

By following these planting and care tips, your Phlox Candy Store Coral Creme Drop will thrive and produce stunning blooms throughout the growing season!