garden phlox

Garden phlox should be watered deeply and thoroughly, no more than once a week. Generally, it is best to allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot. To gauge when to water the plant, stick your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle and feel for moisture. If the first few inches are dry, then it’s time to water. If the ground feels moist, then wait a few days before checking again. During periods of extreme heat or wind, you may need to water more often.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum') is a sun-loving plant that requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, ideally during the early morning and late afternoon. It can tolerate partial shade but will not produce abundant blooms without plenty of bright sunshine. In areas where temperatures are consistently hot, providing garden phlox with some protection from the afternoon sun can help prevent stress and help maintain the plant's health.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Eva Cullum') should be pruned annually in late winter to early spring, as soon as the danger of hard frost has passed and before new growth appears. Start by removing any dead stems or flower heads, as well as any weak or damaged stems. Once this is done, cut back the remainder of the plant by about 1-third or to within 3 to 4 inches of the soil surface. Be sure to make clean, slanted cuts just above a growth node or an outward-facing bud. This annual pruning will encourage healthy growth and abundant flowers during the flowering season.