Phlox is simply a must for many gardeners. The summer flower is available in different sizes and colours, so that there is a suitable variety for every spot in the garden. We will show you what to consider when planting phlox.

In a nutshell

  • Phlox is available as a cushion perennial or as a plant up to 170 cm high
  • fits in every garden
  • Color variety of the flowers ranges from white to purple, red and blue
  • Care is easy, water and fertilize regularly
  • Propagation is by division

location & soil

Phlox thrives in full sun or partial shade. The flowers are most pronounced in full sun. There are some varieties whose flowers are allowed, and these also do this especially in the sun. Demands on the soil:

  • permeable, waterlogging is poorly tolerated
  • still slightly damp
  • rich in nutrients and humus

plant phlox

The planting distance should be between 20 and 40 cm depending on the final size of the plants. If an underplanting with smaller plants is desired, the distance can also be slightly larger so that all plants have enough space.

young phlox

Notice: A larger planting distance ensures better air circulation. The leaves dry better after rain. this is the best protection against powdery mildew.

The best time for planting is in early May.

  • Dig planting hole: The roots of the plant should have enough space in it.
  • enrich soil: Mix the excavation and the substrate with some compost.
  • vole protection: Where necessary, close-meshed wire protects the perennials from being eaten by voles.
  • Plant phlox: Plant the perennial in the prepared hole. Fill in the soil and press down well.
  • watering: Water the plant thoroughly and continue to do so for the next few days while it still needs to grow.

watering & fertilizing

Sufficient moisture is necessary for proper care. Therefore water the perennials regularly. Dense planting around the phlox or a mulch cover is helpful against evaporation. Mulching also provides the plants with the nutrients they need. A compost addition in the spring additionally supports the nutrient supply.

To cut

The most important pruning measure is the removal of the withered flowers. This achieves a rebloom. It also makes sense to remove all old stems close to the ground in the spring before new growth begins. The perennials stay healthier this way.

Diseases & Pests

Phlox is hardly susceptible to pests or diseases. If the plants are too damp, powdery mildew can form.

propagation

The easiest way to multiply phlox is by division. Older plants benefit from division because it allows them to grow better.

  • the best time is autumn
  • dig up plant
  • Break up the roots with a spade or knife
  • Plant individual pieces again
  • choose a new location for it
  • Another option is cuttings.
  • Cut off healthy shoots of the mother perennial
  • remove lower leaves
  • dip in rooting powder
  • stick in potting soil
  • moisten carefully
  • Put foil over it to increase the humidity
  • plant the young phlox when strong roots have formed

Phlox in pots

The small varieties of the phlox are also suitable for pots and tubs and can thus beautify balconies and terraces. Carpet or upholstery phlox in particular fits well in a bucket as underplanting for larger perennials or shrubs. The phlox needs a little more attention in the bucket. It needs to be watered more often, the substrate should be nutrient-rich and loose. Fertilize once a week with a flowering plant fertilizer. In winter, the plants should be planted indoors or in autumn before that in the open ground, then the winter protection is better.

Species & Varieties

  • Tall Flame Flower (Phlox paniculata): the best-known flame flower par excellence
  • Cushion phlox (Phlox subulata): on rather sandy sites, forms cushions, evergreen
  • Wandering phlox (Phlox stolonifera): stays small, more demanding than other species, good for semi-shade
  • Meadow Phlox (Phlox maculata): sunny garden pitches
  • Annual phlox (Phlox drummondii): floriferous, particularly rich in colour
  • Large-leaved phlox (Phlox amplifolia): tolerates drought, good under trees
  • Wild form of the flame flower (Phlox douglasii): cushion-forming, good ground cover
  • Wood Phlox (Phlox divaricata): small, flowers blue or white

frequently asked Questions

With which plants can Phlox be combined?

The tall perennials can be combined well with lower ground covers. Also with carpet phlox. This, on the other hand, also fits well in the rock garden, where it can be combined with other cushion-forming perennials.

Is the phlox suitable for the vase?

The flowers of the higher phlox are suitable for the vase if they are cut early in the day and put into the water immediately. Not all of the buds on the stem should have blossomed yet.

Is the phlox hardy?

Usually the phlox is hardy. However, it is important to avoid waterlogging in the cold season in order to overwinter it successfully. With flowers in pots or tubs, care must be taken that the soil does not freeze through.

Category:

Garden plants