Does Phlox subulata need full sun?
The specific epithet, subulata, is Latin and translates as awl-shaped, which references the leaves. Moss phlox prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil and full sun. It flowers best in full sun, but in hot, humid summers, the plant appreciates some dappled sun. Phlox subulata, commonly called Moss Phlox, Moss Pink, Mountain Phlox or Creeping Phlox, is a vigorous, spreading, mat-forming, sun-loving phlox that grows to only 4 – 6” tall but spreads to 24” wide.Wait until fall frost kills tall phlox before pruning to the ground; fall pruning is keeps powdery mildew at bay. Regular deadheading and light trimming encourage bushier growth, extend blooming, and keep plants tidy. Cut back creeping phlox right after it finishes blooming in spring if pruning then at all.Creeping Phlox is a standout in the garden for its ability to provide stunning color and texture with minimal effort. It is best planted in spring, when it is at peak bloom, ensuring an effortless transition into your garden.Creeping phlox is often confused with: Both are semi-evergreen groundcovers that boast a bounty of bright spring blooms, but there are a few notable differences between the two phlox species. Phlox subulata grows shorter, forming a lower, more dense habit than its counterpart.
Which phlox blooms all summer?
Phlox paniculata is a stunning, summer-blooming perennial native to the Eastern and Central US, thriving in floodplains, thickets, low woodlands, and along streams. Depends on the type. Phlox are often categorized as early season, midseason, and late season bloomers. By planting varieties of each, you’ll have flowers all summer long and well into autumn.Spring Phlox (Phlox subulata and other hybrids) Daffodils, hyacinths, muscari, fritillaria and early tulips all make good companions for spring phlox.Depends on the type. Phlox are often categorized as early season, midseason, and late season bloomers. By planting varieties of each, you’ll have flowers all summer long and well into autumn.
What is the difference between creeping phlox and Phlox subulata?
Creeping phlox is often confused with: Both are semi-evergreen groundcovers that boast a bounty of bright spring blooms, but there are a few notable differences between the two phlox species. Phlox subulata grows shorter, forming a lower, more dense habit than its counterpart. Once established, these plants provide consistent blooms year after year, making them a long-term investment. Typically, Phlox has a lifespan of 3-5 years, with some varieties living even longer.Garden Phlox thrives in well-drained soil and benefits from occasional deadheading to encourage prolonged blooming. Providing adequate air circulation and spacing between plants helps prevent powdery mildew, a common issue with older varieties.After the stems of large species of phlox have completely withered in late autumn, they can be cut back. However, it is better to leave them over the winter and only cut them in the spring just before new shoots appear. Thus, the dead stems provide winter shelter for many insects. Deadheading flowers is also possible.Winter Dormancy Explained It’s a survival tactic, where the plant conserves energy and reduces activity to make it through the cold months. To tell if your Creeping Phlox is dormant, look for slowed growth and fewer new leaves.
Does creeping phlox stay green all summer?
When not in bloom, Creeping Phlox forms a dense mat of green foliage. The leaves are needle-like, similar to those of some evergreens, and remain green throughout the year in most climates. Picking the Perfect Fertilizer for Your Creeping Phlox Phosphorus is the star when it comes to blooms. A ratio with higher P, like 5-10-5, will encourage those vibrant flowers to pop without turning your garden into a leafy jungle.However, complete fertilizers sold for flowering plants (including roses and bulbs) such as 15-30-50 or 10-30-20 contain higher amounts of phosphorus (the second number) than nitrogen or potassium and are often labeled as “blossom or bloom booster”.
What are the downsides of creeping phlox?
While their myriad features make a strong case for growing creeping phlox plants, it’s undeniable that they’ve got their fair share of downsides. Fungi find their foliage quite palatable and love to afflict them with powdery mildew and black root rot disease. Reality: While phlox benefits from care, they’re far from high-maintenance. Regular watering, occasional deadheading, and a light spring feeding are usually all they need to thrive. Reality: Proper planting in well-drained soil and good air circulation can prevent common issues like powdery mildew.Spacing: Garden phlox should be planted about 18 inches apart, while Creeping phlox should be planted about 2 feet apart. Giving these plants lots of room for air circulation is the key to limiting the appearance of mildew. Although most varieties available today have been bred to resist mildew.From Seeds: It typically takes 2 to 3 years for Creeping Phlox to reach full maturity when grown from seeds. From Cuttings: Cuttings can hasten maturity, with plants establishing themselves within a year.During the colder months or off-season, creeping phlox typically recedes and may look dry or lifeless. The presence of grayish or dry foliage can be part of its natural cycle before regrowing in the spring.