garden phlox

Garden phlox should be watered every 5-7 days during the growing season with 1-2 inches of water per week. It is best to allow the top 2-3 inches of soil to dry out between waterings. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but never soggy. Watering during the early morning hours is best for garden phlox, as this will lessen the risk of disease. During hot, dry weather, water may be necessary more frequently. Mulching around the base of the plant is helpful to retain moisture around the plant.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Dusterlohe' NICKY) needs full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. It will do best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, and can tolerate some light shade in the afternoon. Indirect light, however, should be avoided, as the plant will not receive enough sunlight to be able to grow properly. During the height of summer, it may also be beneficial to provide the plant with some light shade during the hottest part of the day, if temperatures are extremely high.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Dusterlohe' NICKY) should be pruned in early spring, after the threat of frost has passed. Pruning should begin by removing any dead or diseased stems, and then removing up to 1-third of the oldest, woodiest stems at ground level. This will help promote vigorous new growth and promote optimal flowering. After the primary pruning is complete, you can tidy up the plant by removing any remaining dead stems and eliminating straggly or leggy new growth. Finally, you can shape the remaining stems to form a mound or pyramid my removing any extra stems that protrude from the desired shape.