Phlomis, commonly known as Jerusalem Sage or Turkish Sage, is a versatile and hardy perennial known for its unique foliage and attractive flowers. Follow these planting guidelines to ensure the successful establishment and growth of your Phlomis plants:

Choosing the Right Location

Sun Exposure: Phlomis plants thrive in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Soil Type: Well-draining soil is crucial for Phlomis. They tolerate a variety of soil types, but good drainage helps prevent root rot. Amending heavy soils with organic matter can improve drainage.

Planting Time

Spring or Autumn: The best time to plant Phlomis is in the spring or autumn when the soil is workable and temperatures are moderate.

Planting Steps

Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the Phlomis plant. The depth should be equal to the height of the root ball.

Root Ball Positioning: Place the Phlomis plant in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

Backfilling: Fill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.

Spacing

Allow Adequate Space: Provide adequate spacing between Phlomis plants, considering their mature size. This prevents overcrowding and allows for good air circulation.

Watering

Establishment Period: Water Phlomis plants regularly during the first growing season to help them establish a strong root system.

Subsequent Watering: Once established, Phlomis is drought-tolerant. Water deeply when the soil is dry, but be cautious not to overwater, as they are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions.

Mulching 

Mulch Application: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of Phlomis plants to conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Pruning

Spring Pruning: In late winter or early spring, prune Phlomis to remove any dead or damaged growth. This encourages a compact and bushy habit.

Fertilising

Minimal Fertilisation: Phlomis generally doesn’t require heavy fertilisation. A balanced, slow-release fertiliser applied in spring is usually sufficient.

Pests and Diseases:

Monitor for Issues: Keep an eye out for common pests and diseases, such as aphids or powdery mildew. Treat any problems promptly.

By following these planting guidelines, you can enjoy healthy and vibrant Phlomis plants in your garden. Adjust care based on specific local conditions and the variety of Phlomis you have planted.

Follow these aftercare guidelines to ensure the continued health and vitality of your Phlomis plants:

Watering

Establishment Period: During the first growing season, continue to water your Phlomis regularly to help establish a strong root system. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Drought-Tolerant Phase: Once established, Phlomis is generally drought-tolerant. Water deeply when the soil is dry to the touch. However, be cautious not to overwater, as Phlomis is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions.

Mulching

Organic Mulch: Maintain a layer of organic mulch around the base of Phlomis plants. Mulch helps conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Renew the mulch layer as needed.

Pruning

Spring Pruning: In late winter or early spring, conduct light pruning to remove any dead or damaged growth. This encourages a compact and bushy habit. Additionally, it promotes air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Remove Spent Flower Stalks: After the flowering period, trim back the spent flower stalks to encourage a neat appearance and potentially stimulate a second round of blooms.

Fertilising

Minimal Fertilisation: Phlomis generally does not require heavy fertilisation. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to provide essential nutrients. Avoid excessive fertilisation, as Phlomis prefers nutrient-poor soils.

Pest and Disease Management

Monitor Regularly: Keep a close eye on your Phlomis plants for any signs of pests, such as aphids, or common diseases like powdery mildew. Address issues promptly to prevent them from spreading.

Organic Pest Control: Consider using natural or organic methods for pest control, such as releasing beneficial insects or applying insecticidal soap for aphids.

Division (Optional):

Every Few Years: If your Phlomis plants become overcrowded or the centre starts to die out, consider dividing them. This is typically done every few years in early spring.

Winter Care:

Cold Hardy: Phlomis is generally cold hardy, but providing a layer of mulch around the base of the plant in late autumn can help protect the roots during winter.

Support

Staking (if needed): Some taller varieties of Phlomis may benefit from staking to support their stems, especially if grown in exposed or windy locations.

By following these aftercare guidelines, you can enjoy healthy and flourishing Phlomis plants in your garden. Adapt care based on your local climate and specific variety of Phlomis.

At Proctors Nursery, we are committed to providing you with guidance on the care of your Phlomis plants. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that certain factors, particularly extreme weather conditions, may impact the health and performance of your plants beyond our control. Please consider the following disclaimer:

Extreme Weather Events

Phlomis plants, while resilient, may be affected by extreme weather conditions such as severe frost, prolonged heatwaves, extremely high winds, or exceptionally heavy rainfall. These events can lead to stress, damage, or altered growth patterns in Phlomis plants.

Weather Monitoring and Protective Measures:

We recommend staying vigilant and monitoring local weather forecasts regularly.

During periods of extreme weather, consider implementing protective measures such as temporary shading during intense heat or covering plants to mitigate frost damage.

Aftermath Assessment

Following extreme weather events, assess the condition of your Phlomis plants. If damage occurs, follow appropriate care steps, including pruning damaged parts and adjusting watering routines.

Natural Variables

Phlomis, like any living organism, is influenced by natural variables. Extreme weather events are inherent risks that may impact plant health despite best care practices.

No Guarantee

Due to the unpredictable nature of extreme weather, we cannot guarantee the outcome of your Phlomis plants’ response to such conditions. Plants may exhibit stress or damage beyond our control.

Customer Responsibility

We encourage you to take proactive measures based on weather forecasts and implement protective strategies to minimise potential harm during extreme weather.

Adaptation

Recognise that Phlomis plants may respond differently to various weather conditions. Adapt care practices accordingly and be prepared to address any adverse effects.

Contact Us

If you have specific concerns or questions related to extreme weather impacts on your Phlomis plants, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to offer guidance and support within the scope of our expertise.

Email: Info@proctorsnursery.co.uk

Note: This disclaimer aims to acknowledge the unpredictability of extreme weather events and the associated risks to Phlomis plants. Your understanding, proactive care, and adaptation to local conditions are essential for ensuring the well-being of your garden.