The Plant Lady

Phlox

Orioles and hummingbirds have returned to Bluff Country. This usually occurs just before the bloom time of creeping phlox, one of the most popular ground cover perennials.

Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is an evergreen ground over that loves full sun. I have seen it draped over the edge of a retaining wall, defining a garden edge, and growing en masse down a steep embankment. Creeping phlox has evergreen foliage that forms a thick mat. Over time, the foliage sends small roots into the soil and holds the soil in place. Traditionally grown in sandy soil, this plant is tolerant of loamy soils as well, but does not always thrive in clay.

Creeping phlox can be found in a rainbow of pastel colors such as blue, pink, purple, white, and there are even some varieties with striped flowers. The plant flowers heavily in spring, while the foliage stays green all season long. Any brown bits can simply be trimmed off, and fresh green foliage will fill back in quickly. 

Once creeping phlox is established, there is minimal maintenance needed. Be sure to thoroughly prep your beds and eradicate any weeds before planting. Weeds can be challenging to pull between the tightly woven branches of this ground cover.

Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) is another common perennial plant found in Bluff Country. Native to parts of eastern and central United States, this plant has been cultivated extensively. Older varieties of Garden Phlox were often plagued mid-summer by powdery mildew, a disease that causes the leaves to look like they were dusted with baby powder. Most new varieties that are sold today are mildew-resistant. If you have a variety that is afflicted by mildew, treat your plant early with a fungicide to prevent mildew from setting in.

Garden phlox, depending on the variety, can reach heights of 2-4 feet tall and three feet wide. Cutting off the spent phlox flowers can be especially beneficial; many have seeds that will sprout all over the garden if allowed to. The seeds may grow to be different than the original plat because the parent plant is likely a hybrid.

Garden phlox comes in a bright array of colors: red, purple, pink, white, and even some with variegated foliage. Many are fragrant. Personally, I own an orange variety, but I have never seen it bloom. Perhaps it wants to live further south.

Garden phlox love full sun and well-drained soil, but will tolerate some clay. Allow the plants plenty of space in the garden. Air circulation is key when trying to prevent powdery mildew. Deadheading and a bit of general perennial fertilizer will likely encourage a second bloom.

Wild phlox, also called Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis) is found growing wild in ditches and along highways in our region. Not to be confused with phlox, this imposter is quite invasive and not native to our region. This plant should not be dug up and moved into your garden.

Hesperis is a biennial or short-lived perennial that grows about three feet tall. The blossoms of this plant are often a mix of pink, purple and white. This plant is especially fragrant in the evenings when the air is still. The foliage goes dormant later in the season.

The Plant Lady is a regional horticulturalist with the goal is of making Bluff Country more beautiful – one garden at a time. Follow her on Facebook @PlantLadyMn for helpful tips and tricks, or via email at ThePlantLadyMN@gmail.com.