The varieties of upholstered phlox (Phlox subulata) offered in garden shops are generally hardy and perennial without any restrictions. Nevertheless, the question arises: When do real garden professionals plant these low-growing ground cover plants to achieve optimal growth results?
When is the best time to plant cushion phlox?
The best time to plant cushion phlox is in spring to ensure optimal growing conditions. Avoid frosty or extremely dry times. Make sure you have a sunny location, well-drained soil and enough space for good spread.
Planting is possible at any time during the gardening season
Between spring and autumn, upholstery phlox specimens grown in containers can actually be planted out at any time. However, in order for the plants to grow well, frosty times in spring or late autumn as well as extremely dry mid-summer days should be avoided as times for planting.
The care required depends on the location and the time of planting
The easiest way to plant cushion phlox is in spring. Then new roots can form in the new location in good time, making almost any additional care unnecessary, even in dry summer phases. The following factors are also crucial for plants to thrive:
- A location that is as sunny as possible
- permeable soil (without risk of waterlogging)
- enough space for these prolific plants to spread
Tip
Basically, upholstery phlox is hardy outdoors without any problems. However, if planted in autumn, it should be planted in the ground a few weeks before the first frost if possible so that it can grow sufficiently and form new roots before the onset of winter.
