wild sweet William

Wild Sweet William is a hardy and widely distributed ground cover that grows in a variety of soils and climate conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soils, and when grown in dappled shade or morning sun is particularly drought tolerant. When watered appropriately, Wild Sweet William plants have a long bloom season—from late spring through early fall. To ensure best performance, water Wild Sweet William plants deeply once per week. During dry spells or periods of intense heat, more watering may be needed—provide a deep, thorough soak every 5 to 7 days. Water at the base of the plant in the morning, and avoid wetting the foliage which can lead to fungal disease. Reduce watering after flowering has stopped in late summer or early fall. At this time, allow the top inch or 2 of soil to dry out before watering lightly, and gradually reduce waterings as winter approaches.

Wild sweet William (Phlox divaricata subsp. laphamii) needs full sun, or 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, to thrive. It grows best in a location that receives full sun during the morning and afternoon hours. During the summer months, some afternoon shade may be beneficial in order to protect the plant from the scorching and intense summer sun. It is important to provide the best light possible, especially when starting the plants indoors, as this will help keep the wild sweet William plants healthy and robust.

Wild sweet William should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems first, as well as any stems that are crisscrossing or overcrowded. Focus pruning on cutting back the center of the plant, leaving bold sprays of flowering stems at the outside of the plant. Prune no more than 1-third of the plant in a single year - this will reduce the possibility of the plant becoming too open or leggy.