Planting
When to Plant Phlox
Plant phlox in the spring after the threat of frost has passed, or plant in the fall at least a month before your first frost.
Where to Plant Phlox
Because there are so many different types of phlox, sunlight requirements vary. Tall garden phlox do best in full sun, while woodland species thrive in partial shade.
In general, phlox prefer soil that is nutrient-rich and evenly moist. They do not like to sit in wet soil, however. Use a garden fork or tiller to prepare your garden bed prior to planting. Loosen the soil to about 12 to 15 inches deep, then mix in a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost to improve soil consistency and fertility.
How to Plant Phlox
- It is easier to grow phlox from cuttings/transplants than from seeds, although established plants will readily spread by seed in the garden.
- Space plants according to their mature size.
- If you are transplanting a plant from a pot, dig a hole about twice the size of the pot’s diameter and place the plant so that the top of the root ball is even with the soil’s surface. Fill in around the root ball, and remember to water it thoroughly.
Types
These perennials sport copious star-shaped, colorful flowers from spring through summer, depending on the variety. Because there are so many types (many of which are native to North America), you can find a phlox for almost any garden. Truly, their versatility can’t be overstated.
- Low-growing creeping phlox works great as ground cover in sunny yards.
- Ankle-high woodland phlox is perfect for dappled, shady beds.
- Medium-height garden phlox is often the “backbone” of the perennial garden, providing a layer of color midway through the garden and filling in gaps.
- Tall garden phlox is excellent as a colorful backdrop, with large, often-fragrant flower clusters.
Hi Lennie,
Yes, that is doable. Phlox species grow in Florida. Bear in mind, they prefer moist soil and part shade--their native habitat is deciduous woods and bluffs.
Well, the variety might be the key here. "Bare root" is not a type of plant, it's simply a descrip of the condition in which you received it, usually shipped, but several types are noted above (see "growth requirements") and each requires a slightly different moisture level. Based on that, it could be that your moisture/drainage conditions are not suitable. But consider this, too: are your plants getting at least 6 hours of sun? Phlox thrive in full sun; an insufficient amount of sun, even partial shade, will hinder blooms. If this is the case, you should move them. Also, over-fertiliziing, esp giving these plants too much nitrogen, can cause them to grow great stems and leaves but no flowers. A soil test will give you a clue about your soil quality. Does any of that sound like your situation? Phlox do not ask for much. Here's hoping something here brings these beauties into bloom.
It's not too late to plant the seeds. You may not have as many blooms this year but the plants will have time to grow and get established for next year.
- « Previous
- 1
- 2
- …
- 10
- Next »
Comments