The phlox is quite easy to care for, but a cut now and then won't hurt. We explain what you should consider when pruning phlox.
The old stems have to be removed before the new shoots start springing. But when exactly? And how was that again with the pruning of smaller phlox species? The most important thing about pruning the phlox (Phlox) is explained below.
Pruning Phlox
When pruning the phlox, there is a key difference between creeping and tall growing phlox species. Both should be trimmed once a year, but the methods and purposes are very different. Large species such as the tall perennial phlox (Phlox paniculata) are only pruned in winter when their shoots have died. Small species, on the other hand, are pruned as they grow to enhance their growth habit.
Pruning Phlox: The Right Time
When pruning, a distinction is made between large and creeping types of phlox. Below you will find out exactly what the differences are.
Pruning phlox: pruning large species
Tall herbaceous phlox and large-leaved phlox (Phlox amplifolia) belong to the large species. In late autumn, after the stems of large species of phlox have completely withered, they can be cut. However, it is better to leave them over the winter and only cut them off in the spring just before new growth. The dead stems offer a nice winter quarters for many insects. It is also possible to cut back the inflorescences after the flowers have withered. However, this measure is not necessary. It only prevents the plants from self-seeding.
Pruning Phlox: Pruning Creeping Species
Creeping phlox species include the cushion phlox (Phlox douglasii) and the carpet phlox (Phlox subulata). These can be cut back immediately after flowering, i.e. in early summer. This is how the wintergreen phlox species sprout fresh.With a bit of luck, you can even look forward to a second flower afterwards.
Pruning Phlox: Instructions
In general, phloxes do not need to be pruned at all. Cutting back phlox is only a cosmetic measure. With deciduous phlox species, you can plant the withered shoots from the previous year without worrying, i.e. cut them off directly on the ground. Withered inflorescences are only cut back to where the leaves begin. Evergreen phlox species such as the cushion phlox can be cut back by two thirds after flowering in spring to stimulate new growth.
You can find out more about caring for phlox here in our special article on the subject.