Tall Phylox stem is growing little plants on it - Ask Extension
I have grown tall phylox for 5 years and only this year I have noticed small little off shoots on the stems. Is there a reason for them?
Knowledgebase
Tall Phylox stem is growing little plants on it #880187
Asked August 04, 2024, 9:40 PM EDT
I have grown tall phylox for 5 years and only this year I have noticed small little off shoots on the stems. Is there a reason for them?
Crosby County Texas
Expert Response
We'd need to see the plants or sharp photos to determine what's causing the unusual growth.
However, based upon your description, our guess is that the plants have been affected by aster yellows.
Yellows damage causes various kinds of abnormal growth. Affected plants do not recover and should be removed.
Following are photos of phlox exhibiting yellows damage and more information about this disease:
https://images.app.goo.gl/yDkAAcnuc5chuW7L9
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/aster-yellows
If, after reviewing this information, you think aster yellows doesn't account for the problem, please reply to this message and attach sharp photos of affected plants.
However, based upon your description, our guess is that the plants have been affected by aster yellows.
Yellows damage causes various kinds of abnormal growth. Affected plants do not recover and should be removed.
Following are photos of phlox exhibiting yellows damage and more information about this disease:
https://images.app.goo.gl/yDkAAcnuc5chuW7L9
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/aster-yellows
If, after reviewing this information, you think aster yellows doesn't account for the problem, please reply to this message and attach sharp photos of affected plants.
Although you are apparently a Texas resident, your question was directed to Minnesota master gardeners. If you need to pursue this question, please follow up by directing it to Texas horticulturalists or master gardeners. Thank you.
