You can find mildew-resistant phlox at many nurseries if you know which cultivars to choose. There is an outstanding, recent trial by Chicago Botanic Garden that rates mildew-resistance, among other qualities, for garden phlox. If you refer to pages 4 and 5 of that study's report, you will find a list of cultivars with excellent mildew resistance noted in the second too last column.

The top phlox for mildew resistance in the trial was Phlox paniculata 'Shortwood', a pink phlox with a darker center. If you Google that name you will find many nurseries that will ship the plant.

Remember that stressed plants will usually develop some degree of mildew. Grow your phlox in a cool location, preferably in a little shade, and in a humus-rich soil, plus at least 6 hours of sun. Additional tips:

• Do not overcrowd your plants; this will lead to poor air circulation and will create problems with the humidity level around susceptible plants.
• During the winter the fungus survives on plant debris, so it is important to clean up around infected plants.
• Using high nitrogen fertilizers (the first number of three on fertilizer labels) promotes weak, leafy growth; try a balanced fertilizer with low numbers and apply only once in the spring to give perennials a boost for the season.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service