How Do You Care For Woodland Phlox?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Grow phlox in shade or partial shade in moist, but

well-drained soil

that's rich in organic matter, such as compost. Once established, woodland phlox will tolerate periods of drought, but performs best if kept evenly moist. It spreads slowly to form clumps of color in the early spring.

Do you cut back woodland phlox?


Prune in the late summer and fall

if you do not want the plant to reseed. Be aware that if phlox stems flop over onto the ground, there will be leafy shoots that will actually begin to root at the nodes and grow into the soil which will increase the colony's spread.

Can woodland phlox take full sun?

It

prefers partial shade to full shade

. These native plants require little maintenance, but you might add a light mulch in summer to help keep the moisture in the soil. Where to start growing woodland phlox?

Does phlox need to be cut back?

Remember to remove the dead/faded flowers so that your plants can rebloom. If you have tall phlox,

cut the stems back to about 1 to 2 inches above the soil after the first killing frost in the fall

. … Divide tall garden phlox every 2 to 3 years to ensure healthy and disease-free plants.

How often should I water my woodland phlox?

Water garden phlox plants

weekly for the first few weeks

and often enough to keep the soil lightly moist thereafter. Keep the foliage as dry as possible by applying the water to the soil rather than the foliage. Spread a 2- to 3-inch (5 to 7.5 cm.)

How do you prune a woodland phlox?

Mulch lightly to retain moisture and keep the roots cool through the summer. Prune

after flowering

if desired to tidy the plant's appearance but wait until spring to clean up the clump, only removing winter-damaged foliage. This plant has few pest problems, other than powdery mildew.

Is woodland phlox poisonous?

Phlox, a flowering plant in the Polemoniaceae family, is not dangerous to dogs or cats.

This evergreen perennial isn't toxic

, so even if your pet nibbles on the leaves or flowers, no harm should ensue.

Does phlox like sun or shade?

Light: Both varieties of

phlox enjoy full sun

, although the upright Garden phlox can take a little afternoon shade, particularly in the south. Soil: Phlox is tolerant of most garden soils, but well-drained soil is preferable, particularly in northern areas where spring snow is slow to drain.

Does wild blue phlox spread?

Wild Blue Phlox is rhizomatous and

will spread slowly but steadily

. It is also commonly referred to as Blue Phlox, Woodland Phlox, or Louisiana Phlox. Some may call it Wild Sweet William, but that is the common name we give to Phlox maculata.

Is phlox poisonous to dogs?

Creeping Phlox. Creeping phlox may have dainty spring-time flowers, but this ground cover is tough-as-nails! It's highly adaptable and able to thrive in challenging sites, like slopes, rocky areas, and borders. It grows to form a lush carpet of foliage and flowers that

are non-toxic.

When should I cut down phlox?

Garden phlox can be kept more compact by cutting them back in

late spring or early summer

.

Can you overwater phlox?

Caring for Creeping Phlox is very simple and easy. They are very low-maintenance plants. … As with so many other plants, they do not like constantly soggy or wet soil, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. So

be careful not to overwater!

Does phlox need lots of water?

Watering: Phlox doesn't like drought and should be watered during dry spells or whenever you see the foliage begin to wilt. Ideally, they should receive

about an inch of water per week during the growing season

. To keep foliage healthy, water in the morning and at the rootzone, rather than overhead.

Is phlox good in shade?

Garden phlox is considered a sun-loving, cool-garden perennial, but it

can be grown in light shade

– particularly at the hotter end of its zone tolerance. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and will dry out quickly during periods of drought.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.