How To Grow And Care For Creeping Phlox

Let me tell you about the time I attempted to plant creeping phlox and ended up with a weedy patch. That was not my finest hour.

But, like any good gardener, I didn’t let that setback discourage me. I performed more research, spoke with several experts, and tried once more. And let me tell you, when I finally got it perfect, my garden was breathtaking.

That is why it is critical to understand how to develop and care for creeping phlox. This low-maintenance ground cover can offer a splash of color to any landscape, but it does take some care to grow. And believe me, the work is worthwhile.

Growing Creeping Phlox

You can’t make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear. As a result, make sure you start with good soil! 

• Soil: Creeping phlox grows best in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Plant it in soil that is neither too acidic nor too alkaline, or you will have a dismal yield.
• Light: Creeping phlox prefers full light but may tolerate partial shade. Simply ensure that it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day, or it will not bloom as much as you would like.
• Watering: Although creeping phlox is a drought-tolerant plant, it still requires water to grow. Water it thoroughly once a week during the growing season, and don’t skimp on the water! Your creeping phlox will appreciate it.
• Propagation: “Divide and conquer,” as the saying goes. Division is an excellent method of propagating creeping phlox. Dig up the clumps, split the plants, and transplant them every few years. It will aid in the rejuvenation and growth of your creeping phlox. You’ll also have more plants to scatter over your garden!

During a scorching summer, I once forgot to water my creeping phlox for a couple of weeks, and let’s just say it didn’t end well. The plants appeared to have suffered from a desert drought.

Lesson learned: don’t overlook the necessity of adequate watering!

Propagation Methods 

There are a few propagation strategies you can attempt if you wish to develop more creeping phlox.

Division 

Division is one of the simplest. Use a trowel to gently dig up the root system clumps, split the plants with the root systems attached, and transplant them every few years.

Plant them into a well-draining soil and provide them with at least 6 hours of full sun. It’s like resetting your creeping phlox, and it’s a terrific technique to grow new plants in your garden.

Stem Cuttings 

Stem cuttings are another technique of propagation. Remove the lower leaves and plant a 4- to 6-inch cutting from the top of a healthy stem in a container filled with potting soil.

Keep the soil moist, and you should see roots growing in a few weeks.

Creeping Phlox Planting

Before you dig into the garden, ensure you consider a couple of these factors:

• Selecting an appropriate place: Choose a location with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight for growing creeping phlox. Plant it in a low-lying region that accumulates water or in a spot that receives most of the day’s shade.
• Soil preparation: Prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter before planting your creeping phlox. This will assist the soil in retaining moisture and supplying the nutrients the plants require to thrive.

First, make a hole somewhat larger than the plant’s root ball.

Second, put the plant in the hole, making sure the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Then, backfill the hole with soil, carefully tamping it down with your foot.

Finally, water the plant thoroughly, and there you have it! You’ve grown your own creeping phlox.

When I first planted my creeping phlox, I chose a location that was too shady for the majority of the day. The plants did not bloom as much as I had hoped, and they appeared forlorn.

However, after being moved to a more sunny location, they perked right up and began blooming profusely. It just goes to show that when it comes to gardening, location is everything!

Watch the video below for more information about planting creeping phlox:

Mulching

Mulching around your creeping phlox can aid in moisture retention, weed suppression, and temperature regulation.

Spread organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or bark, at the base of the plants, but don’t overdo it. Mulch in excess might choke the plants.

Fertilizing

Creeping phlox doesn’t require much fertilizer, but a little goes a long way. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring when the plants are actively growing.

Use a granulated balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 NPK and water well. Avoid touching the plants with fertilizer to prevent any burning.

Pruning 

When it comes to pruning, “When in doubt, cut it out.” Pruning your creeping phlox can help keep it appearing nice and tidy, as well as promote better flowering.

Trim back the stems by a third after the initial bloom in the spring to encourage a second bloom in the summer. 

Keep an eye on your creeping phlox during the growing season to ensure its health and happiness. To stimulate bushier growth, remove any dead or yellowing leaves and pull down any lanky stems.

Management of Pests and Diseases

Plant your creeping phlox in an area with good air circulation and lots of sunlight to avoid insect and disease concerns.

Keep a watch out for common pests like spider mites and aphids, and treat them as soon as possible using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Winter Care 

Creeping phlox is sturdy and can endure freezing weather, but it’s still a good idea to protect it throughout the winter. Apply a layer of mulch around the plants in late October to insulate the roots and prevent them from frost heave.

If you reside in a hard winter climate, you can also cover the plants with burlap or a frost blanket.

Creative Uses for Creeping Phlox 

There are so many ways you can transform your landscape with creeping phlox, from groundcovers to container planting. 

Let’s review some of them.

Ground Cover

Creeping phlox is an excellent ground cover, spreading out to form a colorful carpet that is ideal for filling gaps between other plants or covering bare soil.

It works particularly well on slopes or in regions where other plants struggle to flourish.

Rock Gardens 

Creeping phlox is an excellent choice for rock gardens, bringing a dash of color to the harsh terrain. Combine it with other alpine plants such as sedum and hens and chicks to create a low-maintenance garden that looks great all year.

Creeping phlox is an excellent plant for edging paths, flower beds, and borders. It has a modest profile in the garden and its surroundings.

Containers 

Creeping phlox can also be cultivated in containers to brighten up porches, patios, and balconies.

Select a container with good drainage and fill it with a potting mix that drains well. During the growing season, water the plants frequently and fertilize them every few weeks.

I once planted creeping phlox in a pot on my front porch, and it looked so nice that my neighbors approached me for gardening advice!

It just goes to show that you can be creative with how you use plants in your garden, and sometimes, the most unexpected choices are the best.

Wrapping Up

Growing and caring for creeping phlox can be a rewarding experience, and with a little bit of effort, you can enjoy beautiful, colorful blooms year after year. 

As the saying goes: “Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” If you’re looking for a low-maintenance plant that’s sure to add a splash of color to your garden, give creeping phlox a try. It’s easy to grow, and with a little bit of care, it can thrive in almost any garden setting.

Gardening is an adventure in which there is always something new to learn and discover. Growing and caring for creeping phlox is a terrific way to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started.

Why not give it a shot? Who knows, you might discover a new hobby!