Phlox is a happy, easy-care perennial plant that comes in many different varieties and fits in well with any landscape. Creeping phlox does not even need to be grown in a flower bed or container, it makes an ideal ground cover in the landscape.
Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) creeps along the soil as a ground cover and remains green most of the year and summer phlox (Phlox paniculata) reaches a mature height of 3-feet (90 cm). Variable bloom times among the different varieties allow for phlox to be in bloom from early spring through fall and there’s a wide array of bloom colors. Are you now wondering how you can grow phlox? They’re easy to plant and grow with these tips.
Planting Location
Planting location depends on variety selected – some plants prefer full sun, prefer partial shade, and some need to be planted in a location that receives morning sun only. Read planting labels to determine the best location in your landscape for planting phlox.
All varieties grow best in fertile, well-draining soil. Phlox is not a drought-tolerant plant, except the creeping variety which will tolerate dry growing conditions.
How To Plant Phlox
Bare-root plants should be planted in prepared soil in the spring after all danger of frost has passed. Container grown plants can be set out any time during the growing season. Space creeping varieties 12-inches (30 cm) apart and taller varieties should be spaced 18-24 inches (45 – 60 cm) apart.
Phlox seeds can be sown directly into prepared soil after all danger of frost has passed in the spring.
Blooms
Phlox produces clusters of small, fragrant, five-petal blooms with distinctive eyes. Bloom colors include blue, purple, pink, red, orange, and white. Bloom time will vary by variety planted.
Creeping phlox will blanket the ground with masses of colorful, fragrant blooms and taller varieties may need to be supported to keep blooms upright.
After Care
Keep soil moist until plants become established. Add a 2-4 inch (5 – 10 cm) layer of organic mulch around plants to help retain soil moisture and prevent weed growth.
After the creeping variety has finished blooming for the season, cut the plants back by one-half to keep them looking neat and encourage lateral growth.
Pest Control
Powdery mildew is the biggest enemy of phlox and the best time to control it is before planting, Select mildew-resistant hybrids for planting and keep plants well spaced to improve air circulation. Thin established plants after spring blooming to increase airflow and prevent powdery mildew.
Plant facts
| Common name | phlox |
| Light | full sun, part shade (depends on varieties) |
| Soil type | loam, sand, chalk |
| Soil drainage | well-drained |
| Height x Width | 4-5 inches (10 – 12 cm) x 2 – 3 feet (60 x 90 cm ), varies between varieties |
| Flowering seasons | spring, summer, fall/autumn |
| Life span | Perennials |
| Plant hardiness zones | 4 – 8 |
Understand and Adjust Microclimates in Your Garden
