sand phlox

When watering sand phlox (Phlox bifida), it’s important to keep in mind that it grows best in dry sandy soils. During the growing season, water deeply enough to thoroughly moisten the soil. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week during the growing season (mid spring to summer). Reduce watering in the fall and winter—water only when the top 2 inches of soil is dry. In periods of extreme heat or drought, sand phlox may require additional watering. Make sure to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to give the plant deep, slow-moving water to ensure it doesn’t get heated up or receive too much water.

In general, sand phlox (Phlox bifida) is a moderately sun-loving species. This means that it requires several hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. However, over-exposure to direct sunlight can be damaging to the plant, so it is best to give sand phlox partial sun, or at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. On hot days, however, it may be beneficial to provide some afternoon shade for the plants to protect them from the heat. Additionally, during the spring and summer months when the temperatures are higher, sand phlox should receive less direct sunlight than when temperatures remain moderate throughout the day.

Sand phlox (Phlox bifida) should be pruned back in late fall or early spring. The pruning should remove more than 1-third of the growth from the previous season, so that the plant is left a stub of no more than 1 to 2 inches high. This will help encourage dense, compact growth in the spring, and will give the garden a neat and tidy look. Additionally, once the new spring growth begins, the plant should be lightly pruned (about 1-third of the new growth) to promote strong, bushy growth.