garden phlox

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Robert Poore') should be watered deeply and thoroughly about once per week. This should be done in the morning hours so that the soil has time to dry out before nighttime temperatures drop. During hot and dry weather, water may need to be added more frequently, depending on soil conditions. It is important to avoid over-watering, which can cause root rot. If the soil is consistently moist, reduce the amount of water given. During the winter months, watering should be reduced significantly.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Robert Poore') performs best in locations that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This sun-loving species should be planted in an area that gets morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade, particularly during peak summer temperatures. While it will tolerate full sun exposures, be aware that this may cause some fading of the blooms. Plants that are exposed to afternoon direct sun will often need to be watered frequently and provided with a layer of mulch to reduce moisture loss.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata 'Robert Poore') benefits from annual pruning during the late winter or very early spring. It's best to wait until the plant is just starting to grow and when the days start to become longer. This is usually late-February to early-March. To prune garden phlox, remove all the dead and damaged plant material with pruning shears. Cut back shoots that are growing in an unsightly direction. Cut out spindly stems, leaving those that are the most vigorous. Remove only the flower stems that have already bloomed for the season. Reducing the number of flower stems can help the remaining ones bloom larger and more vibrantly. Thin out individual shoots and stems, leaving those with strong stems. Prune no more than 1-third of the plant at a time as this species is particularly sensitive to too much pruning.