Can creeping phlox be planted in containers? It certainly can. In fact, keeping creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) in a container is a great way to rein in its vigorous spreading tendencies. This fast-growing plant will soon fill a container or hanging basket with purple, pink, or white flowers cascading over the rim.
Potted creeping phlox is beautiful and, once planted, requires minimal care. It may also be known as moss pink, moss phlox, or mountain phlox. Hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees love the nectar-rich blooms. Read on to learn how to grow creeping phlox in a container.
Growing Creeping Phlox in Pots
Start creeping phlox seeds indoors about six weeks before the last frost in your area. If you prefer, you can start with small plants from a local greenhouse or nursery.
Transplant into a container filled with good quality commercial potting mix after you’re sure any danger of frost has passed. Be sure the container has at least one drainage hole in the bottom. Allow at least 6 inches (15 cm.) between each plant so the creeping phlox has room to sprawl.
Add a small amount of all-purpose fertilizer if the potting mix doesn’t have fertilizer pre-added.
Caring for Container Grown Phlox
Water potted creeping phlox well immediately after planting. Thereafter, water regularly but allow the soil to dry slightly between each watering. In a container, creeping phlox may rot in soggy soil.
Feed container grown phlox every other week using a general purpose, water-soluble fertilizer mixed to half strength.
Cut the plant back by one-third to one-half after blooming to create a neater plant and encourage a second flush of blooms. Cut long runners back to about half their length to create a bushier, denser growth.
Creeping phlox tends to be pest resistant, although it can sometimes be bothered by spider mites. The tiny pests are easy to control with insecticidal soap spray.
-
How To Make Plantable Seed Greeting Cards: Share The Joy Of Growing This Holiday SeasonGet creative making holiday cards using plantable seed paper, and give the memorable gift of growing flowers that will delight recipients for months on end.
-
Want To Grow Four Season Containers? Try These 6 Best Plants For Pots All Year RoundAfter reliable container gardening options that serve you across all four seasons? You’ve come to the right place, as we present the best plants for pots all year round
-
Managing Dried Out Phlox Plants: Why Is My Phlox Yellow And DryBoth creeping phlox and tall garden phlox are favorites in flower beds. Unfortunately, both types can be prone to diseases and pests that can discourage gardeners from growing the charming plants. In this article, we will discuss reasons for phlox yellowing and drying out.
-
Phlox Vs. Thrift Plants: Why Is Phlox Called Thrift And What Is ThriftPlant names can be the source of a lot of confusion. One such naming debacle is the one involving thrift. What is thrift, exactly? And why is phlox called thrift, but only sometimes? Learn more about the difference between thrift and phlox plants in this article.
-
Rotting Creeping Phlox Plants: Managing Black Rot On Creeping PhloxBlack rot on creeping phlox is a major problem for greenhouse plants, but this destructive fungal disease can also afflict plants in the garden. Early identification and treatment are critical for managing the disease. This article can help with both.
-
Drummond's Phlox Plants: Tips For Annual Phlox Care In GardensDrummond's phlox plants also provide a heady scent combined with deeply scarlet blooms. Try growing Drummond's phlox in flower beds, containers or as part of a border. Their bright beauty and ease of care make them a winning specimen. Learn more here.
-
Taking Creeping Phlox Cuttings: How To Grow Creeping Phlox From CuttingsCreeping phlox cuttings root after a few months, readily providing new plants almost effortlessly. Timing is everything when taking creeping phlox cuttings. Learn how to take cuttings from creeping phlox and when to do it for maximum success here.
-
Creeping Phlox Planting Instructions: Tips For Growing Creeping PhloxCreeping phlox produces a colorful spring carpet of soft pastel hues. Little expert knowledge is needed on how to plant and care for creeping phlox. That being said, this article can help with its cultivation.
