Garden Phlox Phlox paniculata 'Starfire'

Water

Garden Phlox should be watered deeply once a week, providing about an inch of water each time. During hot or dry periods, increase the frequency to twice a week, ensuring the soil remains moist but not soggy. Overhead watering should be avoided to prevent mildew issues; instead, use a soaker hose or water at the base of the plants. Adjust your watering to the plant's needs, considering rainfall and the specific conditions of your garden. Garden Phlox requires consistent moisture, so if the week is particularly dry, don't hesitate to water more frequently. Always aim to mimic natural rainfall, providing enough water to reach deep into the root system, which typically means using about 0.5 gallons per square foot every week under normal conditions.

Light

Garden Phlox thrives best in full sun, which means it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. They can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but flowering is optimal when the plant is placed in a location with ample sunlight. Ensure that the chosen spot gets morning sun, which is less harsh than the intense afternoon sun, and provides a well-lit environment throughout the day for vibrant blooms.

Temperature

Garden Phlox is hardy in a range of temperatures and can survive in minimum temperatures as low as -30 degrees Fahrenheit, which corresponds to USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. Ideally, Garden Phlox prefers the temperate climates found in these zones, flourishing best in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plants, so providing some afternoon shade in hotter regions can be beneficial.

Pruning

Garden Phlox should be pruned to promote bushier growth and to prevent disease by increasing air circulation. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, will encourage more blooms and extend the blooming period. Pruning should be done in early spring to remove any dead or diseased stems and can be repeated after the first bloom to maintain shape and appearance. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Garden Phlox requires rich, moist, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix would include garden soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage.

Repotting

Garden Phlox typically does not require frequent repotting and can thrive for several years in the same location. Only repot if the plant outgrows its space or soil is depleted.

Humidity & Misting

Garden Phlox prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions as long as the soil moisture is maintained.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, ample airflow, and consistent moisture.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Phlox paniculata 'Starfire', commonly known as Garden Phlox, starts with seed germination, typically in spring, after experiencing a period of cold stratification. After germination, the seedlings develop into juvenile plants, growing a rosette of leaves at the soil surface. As the plant matures, it elongates and produces upright stems, upon which leaves are arranged in an opposite fashion. The Garden Phlox reaches the flowering stage in summer, displaying clusters of vibrant red flowers that attract pollinators and may lead to cross-pollination. Following pollination, the plant sets seed in the form of capsules, which upon maturity, release the seeds to complete the life cycle. In fall, the plant begins to die back, retreating to its root system, where it becomes dormant over winter, ready to start the cycle again the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: The Summer Phlox, like Phlox paniculata 'Starfire', is commonly propagated through stem cuttings. This method is most popular due to its effectiveness in producing true-to-type plants. To propagate by stem cuttings, one would typically take cuttings of new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings, about 4 to 6 inches long (10 to 15 centimeters), should have several sets of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end of the stem is dipped in rooting hormone powder to enhance root development. Then, the cutting is inserted into a moist soilless potting mix. The pot is kept under a humidity dome or plastic bag to maintain high humidity, and placed in indirect light. Roots usually develop within a few weeks, after which the new plants can be transferred to individual pots and eventually into the garden.