Perennial phlox 'Newbird' Phlox paniculata 'Newbird'

Water

Garden phlox should be watered deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, it usually needs about 1 inch of water per week, whether through rainfall or manual watering. In the absence of rainfall, this translates to about 0.623 gallons per square foot each week. Increase watering during hot, dry spells, and decrease it during rainy periods to avoid overwatering. It's best to water early in the morning to allow foliage time to dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.

Light

Garden phlox thrives in full sun conditions, meaning the plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for garden phlox is an area with unobstructed sunlight, ensuring bright conditions through most of the day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too little light can lead to leggy plants and fewer blooms.

Temperature

Garden phlox is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, surviving winter lows down to around -30°F and can handle summer highs well above 90°F. The ideal temperature for promoting good growth and flowering is between 60°F and 70°F. Garden phlox generally prefers cooler conditions and may require partial shade and additional watering to cope with the stress of high temperatures above 85°F.

Pruning

Garden phlox should be pruned to encourage bushier growth, improve air circulation, and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Deadhead spent blooms regularly to promote additional flowering. After the first killing frost in the fall, cut back the plant's stems to 1 or 2 inches above the soil line. Pruning garden phlox can also be done in early spring to remove any dead or damaged tissue from the previous year.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for garden phlox should be rich in organic matter, well-draining, and have a pH of 6.5-7.0. A combination of two parts garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite or sand is ideal to ensure adequate drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Garden phlox does not typically require frequent repotting as it is a perennial plant meant for the garden. Repotting may be necessary if you start with a container and plan to move it outdoors, which can be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot.

Humidity & Misting

Garden phlox thrives in outdoor conditions where there is natural air circulation and does not require specific humidity levels. It performs well in average garden settings without the need for increased humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure good airflow, and water thoroughly.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sunny area with rich soil and good drainage, water regularly.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Phlox paniculata 'Newbird', commonly known as garden phlox, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate in the spring, given adequate moisture and temperature conditions. Seedlings emerge and develop into young plants, with true leaves following the initial cotyledon stage, gradually establishing a root system. As temperatures warm, the plant enters a vegetative growth phase, producing a clump of stems and foliage. By mid to late summer, the garden phlox enters the flowering stage, displaying clusters of fragrant, colorful flowers that attract pollinators. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, which mature as the plant begins to senesce in the fall. The plant then enters a period of dormancy over the winter, with the roots surviving underground to begin the cycle again the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early Spring

• The most popular method of propagation for Phlox paniculata 'Newbird', commonly known as Garden Phlox, is by division. This perennial plant is best divided in the early spring or early fall. Division involves digging up an established clump of Garden Phlox and carefully separating it into smaller sections, each section should have at least two to three shoots and a portion of the root system. These sections can then be replanted in well-prepared soil with good drainage and spaced approximately 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new divisions thoroughly after planting to encourage root development. This method of propagation not only creates new plants but also rejuvenates older clumps that may have become woody and less floriferous.