Annual phlox 'Phlox of Sheep' Phlox drummondii 'Phlox of Sheep'

Water

Annual Phlox, commonly known as Annual Phlox, requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot, dry periods. It is usually sufficient to water this plant once or twice a week, allowing for deeper soil penetration rather than frequent shallow waterings. The amount needed can vary, but as a general rule, you should aim to provide at least an inch of water each week, which translates to around 0.623 gallons per square foot. Overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot, so it's crucial to reduce watering during rainy spells or if the soil is still moist from the previous watering.

Light

Annual Phlox thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It prefers to be positioned in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight a day, but it can also tolerate some afternoon shade especially in hotter climates. Avoid placing it where it will be in deep shade, as this can lead to poor flowering and increase susceptibility to disease.

Temperature

Annual Phlox is best suited to temperatures between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but frost can be damaging. The plant prefers warmer days and cool nights, and consistently high temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can lead to stress and poor performance.

Pruning

Annual Phlox benefits from regular deadheading to encourage continued blooming and to maintain a neat appearance. Prune off spent flower heads and any discolored or damaged foliage as needed during the blooming season. The best time for more extensive pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts, cutting back any old stems to promote fresh, vigorous growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Annual Phlox prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a bit of sand or perlite works well to ensure adequate drainage and fertility for robust growth.

Repotting

Annual Phlox, being an annual, typically does not require repotting. It is sown directly into the garden or container where it will bloom for a season and then die.

Humidity & Misting

Annual Phlox tolerates a range of humidity levels but thrives in moderate conditions. Excessive humidity can promote fungal diseases, so good air circulation is important.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and moderate water.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, regular watering, and spacing for air.

• Hardiness zone

  2-11 USDA

Life cycle

Phlox of Sheep begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in spring when the soil temperature rises above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. After germination, seedlings emerge and develop a root system and foliage, entering a vegetative growth phase. The plants then undergo a flowering stage, usually in late spring to early summer, producing clusters of colorful blossoms that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers develop into fruit that contains small seeds, which mature by late summer or early fall. Once mature, the seeds are dispersed by wind or wildlife, and the parent plant begins to senesce, eventually dying back with the onset of cooler temperatures or the first frost. The seeds overwinter in the soil and restart the life cycle when conditions become favorable again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Phlox drummondii, commonly known as Annual Phlox or Drummond's Phlox, is most popularly propagated by seed. Sowing can commence in late winter to early spring indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost, or the seeds can be directly sowed into the garden after the danger of frost has passed. For indoor sowing, lightly press the seeds into moistened, well-drained potting mix, ensuring they are not covered as they require light to germinate. Maintaining a temperature within the seed-raising tray of 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius) will encourage germination. Once seedlings have developed strong roots and there are no more frosts, they can be transplanted outdoors to a sunny or partly shaded area with well-drained soil.