Perennial phlox 'Tiara' Phlox paniculata 'Tiara' (PBR) (d)

Water

Garden Phlox requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. It should be watered deeply once a week, allowing the soil to slightly dry out between waterings. Aim to provide about one inch of water each time, which translates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot every seven days. Water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. During particularly hot or windy weather, you may need to water more frequently to maintain soil moisture.

Light

Garden Phlox thrives best in full sun, meaning it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. A spot that offers morning sun with some afternoon shade can be beneficial in regions with very hot summers, as this can help to protect the plant from the intense afternoon heat.

Temperature

Garden Phlox is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8, handling temperatures down to about -30°F and up to 90°F. Ideally, it prefers the temperature to be between 60°F and 70°F, which promotes healthy growth and flowering. Though the plant can survive outside this range, prolonged exposure to temperatures beyond its comfort zone, especially extreme cold without proper winter protection, can be harmful.

Pruning

Garden Phlox should be pruned to promote vigour, improve air circulation, and prevent disease. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage a second flush of flowers. Cut back the stems to about 1 or 2 inches from the ground after the first frost in the fall or in late winter/early spring before new growth starts. Pruning is typically done annually.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Garden Phlox prefers well-draining soil enriched with compost or other organic matter. A soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for 'Tiara' Phlox paniculata. For best results, use a mix of loam, peat, and sand to provide the necessary drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Garden Phlox, specifically 'Tiara' Phlox paniculata, does not require frequent repotting and can thrive for several years in the same pot or garden location. Repotting is typically only necessary if the plant outgrows its current container or if the soil has become exhausted and needs replenishment.

Humidity & Misting

Garden Phlox, such as 'Tiara' Phlox paniculata, is adaptable to a range of humidity levels but performs best with moderate ambient moisture. While it does not require a highly humid environment, avoid placing it in excessively dry conditions for prolonged periods.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun to partial shade with moist, fertile soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Phlox paniculata 'Tiara'—commonly known as Garden Phlox—begins its life as a seed, which, once sown, will germinate in optimal light and moisture conditions. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with a set of true leaves, marking its vegetative growth stage where it focuses on accumulating resources and growing in size. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage during the summer months, producing clusters of fragrant flowers that are attractive to pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. Once pollination occurs, the plant develops seed pods, completing its reproductive cycle. The seeds are eventually dispersed to begin new plants, while the parent plant may die back in winter, depending on the climate, or enter a period of dormancy. In the spring, if the plant is perennial in nature, it will experience regrowth from the root system, thus starting a new cycle of vegetative growth and reproduction.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The most popular method for propagating Phlox paniculata 'Tiara', commonly known as Garden Phlox, is through stem cuttings. This technique is generally conducted during the late spring or early summer once the plant has ample new growth. To propagate by cuttings, gardeners select a healthy shoot and cut a 4 to 6 inch (approximately 10 to 15 cm) portion, making sure that there are several nodes present. The cut end is typically dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then placed in a well-draining potting mix or a blend of peat and perlite. The cutting should be kept moist and in indirect light until roots have established, after which it can be transplanted to a more permanent location in the garden.