Question
On occasion in past years I've had some powdery mildew but otherwise the Phlox have been very reliable and easy to care for.  This year as they started to sprout the stems and leaves were curly and shriveled.  A few stems have overcome the problem and are starting to look OK.  One book described these symptoms as stem nema.  What is this and what can I do?

Answer
Hi Marilyn,
Thanx for your question.  Unfortunately nematode controls are highly toxic and usually recommended just for professionals.  The best nematode control is to destroy affected plants and plant new plants in an uninfected area.  Nematodes can be spread by transplanting because they live on the plant and in the soil.  Some plants will come out of it and if some of yours do, keep the soil well drained, add organic matter and hope for the best.  You may want to take a sample of the diseased plant to your horticultural agent at your local County Extension for a firm diagnosis.  If you need contact information, let me know your state and county.  In Canada?  City and province.

I hope this helps.
Tom