Phlox Care
Phlox plants are relatively easy to care for, though an occasional trim can be beneficial. Here’s what you need to know about pruning Phlox.
Key Points about Pruning Phlox
- Kriechender Phlox (Creeping Phlox) vs. Hoher Stauden-Phlox (Tall Phlox): Pruning methods differ depending on the type of Phlox you have. Both varieties should be pruned once a year, but the timing and purpose vary.
Pruning Tall Phlox
Large Phlox species, such as Hoher Stauden-Phlox (Phlox paniculata), should be pruned after their stems have completely withered in late autumn. However, it’s best to leave the stems standing through winter and prune them just before the new growth appears in spring. This allows the dead stems to provide a winter refuge for insects. You can also remove the faded flower heads, but this is not necessary unless you wish to prevent self-seeding.
Pro Tip: Pruning tall Phlox too early can deprive beneficial insects of shelter during the colder months.
Pruning Creeping Phlox
Creeping Phlox varieties, like Polster-Phlox (Phlox douglasii) or Teppich-Phlox (Phlox subulata), should be pruned directly after blooming in early summer. This promotes fresh growth, and with some luck, you might even get a second bloom later in the season.
General Pruning Guidelines for Phlox
Phlox plants do not require regular pruning, but trimming can enhance their appearance:
- For summer deciduous Phlox, you can cut back dead stems directly to the ground.
- After flowering, cut the faded flower heads of evergreen varieties like Polster-Phlox back by about two-thirds to encourage new growth.
- Avoid cutting back too harshly or too early, as this can affect the plant’s blooming and health.
Extra Care Tips
- Winter Care: Let dead stems stand in winter to provide shelter for insects.
- Spring Care: Early spring pruning before new growth starts is ideal for shaping the plant.