Attract Butterflies to Your Yard with Garden Phlox

 

Phlox is a blooming perennial plant and a top choice for summer gardens. Whether you grow garden phlox or creeping phlox, the plant’s delicate, star-shaped flowers will add vintage appeal to a cutting garden or outdoor living space.

What are the varieties of phlox?

There are two varieties of phlox; garden phlox and creeping phlox.

Garden phlox is also called tall phlox or summer phlox. This variety blooms in mid to late summer.

Creeping phlox is sometimes called moss phlox. It’s a low-growing plant often used as a ground cover. Creeping phlox grows in mounds and creates a lovely carpet of color in the spring.

What bloom colors are available?

Garden phlox is available in a wide variety of colors, including:

• White (Phlox ‘David’)
• Pink (Phlox ‘Bright Eyes’)
• Purple (Phlox ‘Jeana’)
• Pink and white (Phlox ‘Peppermint Twist’)
• Magenta (Phlox ‘Nicky’)

Creeping phlox also comes in many colors, including:

• Pink and white (Phlox ‘Candy Stripe”)
• Blue-lilac (Phlox ‘Emerald Blue’)
• Purple-pink  (Phlox ‘Sherwood Purple’)
• Bright pink (Phlox ‘Emerald Pink’)
• Light purple ( Phlox ‘Purple Beauty’)

What planting zones are best for growing phlox?

Phlox grows best in hardiness zones 3 to 9. Although, this depends on the variety you wish to grow. Check the seed packet for planting recommendations.

How large do phlox plants grow?

Garden phlox typically grows 2 to 4 feet in height and 2 to 3 feet in width. Garden phlox is also available in dwarf varieties, which typically grow 15 inches tall.

Creeping phlox grows to form a low-growing ground cover and usually spreads 9 to 18 inches in width and 4 to 6 inches in height. Plant height, width, and spread will vary depending on the variety.

Does phlox attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects?

Yes. If you love butterflies, phlox plants will attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and pollinating insects to your garden.

Phlox Flower Care

Soil Requirements – Prefers rich, evenly moist, well-draining soil.

Sun Requirements – Phlox prefers a location where it receives full sun – at least six hours per day. Some varieties prefer afternoon shade in the Deep South.

Moisture Needs – Phlox doesn’t grow well in drought conditions and requires moisture during dry spells. Avoid watering overhead to minimize plant diseases.

Fertilization – Apply all-purpose fertilizer around the base of the plants in spring. Add a couple of inches of compost to add nutrients to the soil. Apply mulch in summer to keep plant roots cool.

Pests and Disease – Phlox is susceptible to phlox plant bugs, spider mites, powdery mildew, and root rot. To minimize powdery mildew disease, plant phlox in an area with good air circulation. This helps to keep the foliage dry and lessens the chance of infection.

Should I deadhead phlox?

Yes. Trim faded flower clusters to prolong the bloom time and to prevent self-seeding.

Can I grow phlox in a plant container?

Yes, creeping phlox will quickly fill a plant container or hanging basket with a lovely carpet of color.

Add water to container-grown creeping phlox immediately after planting. Fertilize every 2 weeks with a general-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer mixed to half strength.

Bonus Tip: For easy care, choose a cultivar resistant to powdery mildew. Disease-resistant varieties include ‘Blue Flame’, Forever Pink’, ‘Goliath’, and ‘David’.