It is that time of year when the phlox start to bloom in the garden. This year, they are putting on a really good show of color. Phlox or Phlox paniculata are easy to grow and they are a favorite with butterflies and bees. They come in a wide assortment of colors like white, pink, orange, blue, red, purple and mauve. Some phlox will have a contrasting eye color and variegated blooms. Phlox are easy to grow and will provide blooms in the garden from summer to fall. To keep your phlox blooming, remove spent flowers as they start to fade.
Phlox is a perennial plant that grows from 16 to 36 inches tall, spread rapidly and look great in a mass planting. Always keep taller varieties to the back of the bed and shorter varieties to the front. Phlox prefer full sunlight with some protection from winds. They prefer well-drained soil. Add plant food in the spring and some mulch made from compost or aged manure to keep your plants happy.
One problem with phlox is that they can get powdery mildew. If you have this problem, spray with a fungicide.
Propagation of phlox is by division and best done in the fall. After your phlox have completed blooming in the fall, clean them up for winter by cutting them back.
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| This white phlox has a contrasting eye color of pink. |
If you do not have phlox in your garden, give them a try. They add lots of color to the garden and they will attract bees and butterflies to your garden. If I didn't mention, phlox can make a good cut flower to enjoy in a bouquet inside your home. They have a wonderful fragrance.
Happy Gardening!
Debbie