# Brown Leaves on Phlox
Phlox (Phlox paniculata) are a North American native plant that grows up 3 to 5 feet tall and blooms with flower clusters in shades of purple, white and pink. The plants grow best in areas of full to partial sun and prefer a slightly acidic soil. A pest infestation causes foliage to start browning.
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Identification
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Phlox are susceptible to plant parasitic nematodes. The pests are microscopic, 0.25 to 3 mm long worms with cylindrical heads and rear ends. Nematodes are equipped with piercing, hypodermic needle-like mouths.
Damage
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Nematodes commonly infest roots and use their mouths to inject digestive juices into plant cells before sucking out the cell content. The feeding causes the foliage to discolor and brown. As damage progresses, leaves start to wilt and drop. Plant growth is stunted and weak, and production of new leaves ceases. Nematode infested plants are more prone to drought damage.
Control
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Obtaining healthy plants from reliable sources is among the best preventative measures against nematode infestation. Make sure plants are adapted to selected soil and site conditions. Mulch the root zones during hot weather to keep plants cool. The Cornell University Extension recommends the use of organic mulches.
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