Moss phlox Phlox subulata 'Maischnee'

Water

Creeping Phlox should be watered deeply when the top inch of the soil feels dry, ensuring that the water reaches the roots. During the growing season, this may mean watering once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. It's best to water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to minimize evaporation and allow the foliage to dry out, reducing the risk of fungal diseases. Typically, providing about one gallon per square yard every week during dry periods is sufficient. Adjust the amount of water during rainy periods to avoid waterlogging the soil.

Light

Creeping Phlox thrives best in full sun conditions, receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It can tolerate partial shade, but flowering is more prolific in full sun. The ideal spot for planting Creeping Phlox is in an area where it can bask in the morning sun and is protected from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates.

Temperature

Creeping Phlox is cold-hardy and can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 80°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F, which promotes healthy growth and vibrant blooms. Though tolerant to a wide range of temperatures, it's best to provide some protection from extreme heat to prevent stress on the plant.

Pruning

Creeping Phlox should be pruned after it has finished flowering in late spring or early summer to encourage a bushy growth habit and prevent it from getting leggy. Pruning involves trimming back the spent flower stems and cutting back foliage by about half to maintain a neat appearance and stimulate new growth. Pruning once a year is typically sufficient for maintaining healthy plants.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Moss Phlox thrives best in well-draining soil enriched with compost or other organic matter. The best soil mix for Moss Phlox 'Maischnee' should contain equal parts garden soil, compost, and coarse sand or perlite for improved drainage. The pH level of the soil should ideally be between 6.0 and 8.0, which is slightly acidic to alkaline.

Repotting

Moss Phlox is generally a ground cover plant and does not require frequent repotting. It's usually planted directly into the garden and left to spread. In container gardens, repotting can be done every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot, to refresh the soil and provide more room for growth.

Humidity & Misting

Moss Phlox is tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and does not require any special atmospheric humidity conditions to thrive. It is naturally adapted to outdoor conditions and typically prefers the humidity levels found in its natural or garden setting.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, minimal watering.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and space 15-18 inches apart.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Phlox subulata 'Maischnee', commonly known as Moss Phlox, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in early to late spring depending on the temperature and soil conditions. After germination, it develops a root system and foliage in the form of needle-like leaves, establishing itself as a young plant. Through the spring and into summer, Moss Phlox grows and spreads, forming a low mat or cushion of dense vegetation that serves as ground cover. In late spring to early summer, it enters the flowering stage, producing a profusion of white flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After flowering, the plant sets seed which will be dispersed by wind or animals, completing its reproductive cycle. As a perennial, the plant goes dormant during the winter months, with its roots surviving underground to sprout new growth once the next appropriate growing season begins.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: For Phlox subulata 'Maischnee', commonly known as Moss Phlox or Creeping Phlox, the most popular method of propagation is through stem cuttings. This process is generally best done in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. To propagate Creeping Phlox, one should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a 4 to 6 inch segment. It's important to remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone for better results, and then plant the cutting in a mix of peat and perlite or sand to ensure good drainage. The cutting should be kept in indirect sunlight and the soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Rooting usually occurs within 4 to 6 weeks, after which the new plants can be transplanted to their desired location in the garden.