How to Get Rid of Borers on Phlox Plant

Phlox plants are beloved for their beautiful flowers and vibrant colors. However, these plants are susceptible to various pests, including borers. Borers are insects that burrow into the stems and trunks of plants, causing damage and potentially killing the plant if left untreated. If you notice signs of borers on your phlox plant, it is important to take action promptly to prevent further damage. In this article, we will discuss effective methods to get rid of borers on your phlox plant.

Identifying Borers on Phlox Plants

Before we delve into the methods of getting rid of borers, it is essential to be able to identify their presence on your phlox plant. The most common borers that affect phlox plants are the clearwing moth larvae and the flat-headed borer. Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Wilting or drooping leaves: Borers feed on the inner bark, disrupting the flow of water and nutrients within the plant. As a result, affected phlox plants may exhibit wilting or drooping leaves.

2. Yellowing or browning foliage: The damage caused by borers can lead to yellowing or browning of the foliage. This discoloration often starts at the tips of the leaves and gradually spreads throughout the plant.

3. Presence of holes and sawdust-like frass: Borers create entry holes in the stems or trunks of plants. These holes may have sawdust-like frass around them, indicating the presence of borers.

4. Visible larvae or adult insects: In some cases, you may be able to spot the larvae or adult insects themselves. Clearwing moth larvae are often white or cream-colored with a dark head, while flat-headed borers have distinct flattened heads.

Once you have identified the presence of borers on your phlox plant, it is time to take action to eliminate them.

Removing Infested Stems

The first step in getting rid of borers on your phlox plant is to remove infested stems. This will help prevent further damage and limit the spread of borers to other parts of the plant. Follow these steps:

1. Identify infested stems: Carefully examine the plant for stems with entry holes or sawdust-like frass. These are likely infested with borers.

2. Prune affected stems: Using clean and sharp pruning shears, cut back the infested stems to healthy tissue. Make sure to dispose of the pruned stems away from the phlox plant to prevent reinfestation.

3. Monitor the plant: Keep a close eye on the phlox plant for any new signs of borers. If you notice further infestation, repeat the process of removing infested stems.

Applying Insecticides

In addition to physically removing infested stems, applying insecticides can be an effective method to control borer populations. Here are some insecticides commonly used for treating borers on phlox plants:

1. Systemic insecticides: These insecticides are absorbed by the plant’s vascular system and provide long-lasting protection against borers. They are typically applied as drenches or injected into the soil around the base of the plant.

2. Contact insecticides: These insecticides kill borers upon contact and provide immediate control. They are sprayed directly onto the affected areas of the phlox plant.

When using insecticides, it is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer carefully. Wear protective clothing and gloves to avoid direct contact with the chemicals, and ensure that you apply the insecticide during calm weather conditions to prevent drift.

Implementing Cultural Practices

In addition to physical removal and chemical control, implementing certain cultural practices can help prevent borer infestations and promote overall plant health:

1. Proper sanitation: Regularly clean up fallen leaves and debris around the base of the phlox plant. This will eliminate potential hiding places for borers and reduce the risk of reinfestation.

2. Pruning and thinning: Prune and thin out the phlox plant to improve air circulation and reduce excess moisture, which can attract borers. This will also promote healthy growth and make the plant less susceptible to infestation.

3. Water management: Avoid overwatering your phlox plant, as excessive moisture can attract borers. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

4. Monitor neighboring plants: Keep an eye on nearby plants, as borers can easily spread from one plant to another. If you notice signs of borers on other plants in close proximity, take immediate action to prevent their spread.

By implementing these cultural practices, you can create an environment that is less favorable for borer infestations and promote the overall health of your phlox plants.

Conclusion

Borers can cause significant damage to phlox plants if left untreated. By promptly identifying and removing infested stems, applying insecticides when necessary, and implementing cultural practices to prevent infestations, you can effectively get rid of borers on your phlox plants. Remember to monitor your plants regularly and take action at the first sign of borer activity to ensure the continued beauty and health of your phlox plants.