Unlike a lot of other ground covers that just blend into the background, Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) really knows how to put on a show. It blankets itself in a massive carpet of tiny, vibrant flowers that completely hide the foliage. If you’re wondering when your garden will get that burst of color and how to keep it looking great, here is the lowdown.
The First Pops of Spring Color
One of the best things about Creeping Phlox is that it’s a true herald of spring. You can usually expect these hardy little plants to bloom persistently from May through June. Since spring is also the ideal time to plant new Phlox, don’t be surprised if your brand-new additions look a little shy at first.
If you’ve just tucked some young plants into their new home, don’t panic if they aren’t covered in blossoms right away. It’s totally normal for them to take a season to get settled. Usually, you’ll see that famous “carpet of color” starting in their second year after transplanting.
A Rainbow of Varieties
The Creeping Phlox family is huge, and there’s a shade for pretty much every garden palette. Mixing and matching different varieties is a great way to create a stunning visual texture. As long as you give them a sunny spot, you can enjoy colors like:
- Crisp White (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘White Delight’)
- Romantic Red (e.g., Phlox subulata x ‘Douglasii’ hybrids)
- Soft Rose (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Zwergenteppich’)
- Electric Pink (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Drummond Pink’)
- Pale Lilac (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Lilac Cloud’)
- Lavender Blue (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Emerald Cushion Blue’)
- Scarlet (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Scarlet Flame’)
- Candy-striped Pink and White (e.g., Phlox subulata ‘Candy Stripes’)
Pro Tips for Maximum Blooms
Want to get the most out of your plants? With a little TLC, you might even get a second flush of flowers. The secret is a quick haircut: once the main spring bloom starts to fade, trim the plants back by about a third of their height. If you’re lucky and the weather cooperates, your Phlox might reward you with a beautiful encore performance.
Extra Tip: If you can’t get enough of those delicate Phlox blossoms, try pairing your ground cover with some of its taller cousins. Upright varieties like Meadow Phlox or Garden Phlox (Summer Phlox) look fantastic planted nearby. They don’t just complement the low-growing carpet; they also start blooming just as the Creeping Phlox is finishing up, keeping the Phlox party going all summer long!
