Because of its eye-catching flowers, the phlox is often referred to as "flame flower" in German-speaking countries. The low-growing cushion phlox is often planted in rock gardens or as ground cover, as it tolerates drought well and can produce a remarkable sea of flowers with little care.

Cushion Phlox is an attractive groundcover for the garden

How do these plants grow?

The cushion phlox (Phlox subulata) is a herbaceous plant that forms cushions about 10 to 15 cm high. The slender green leaves form an ideal background for the numerous flowers in flower colors such as white, red, pink or blue.

Which location does the cushion phlox prefer?

The cushion phlox grows particularly well in sunny locations. Garden corners with light partial shade are also tolerated, but growth and flowering are sometimes a bit sparse.

What should be considered when planting cushion phlox?

When cultivating in a planter, make sure that it is of sufficient size. In addition, permanently moist or clay-rich soils should be prepared for planting cushion phlox with a drainage layer or by adding the following materials:

  • gravel
  • gravel
  • sand
  • deposited compost

Should the cushion phlox be preferred?

Cushion phlox can be grown from seeds in bowls and pots or directly outdoors. In most cases, however, container plants are purchased that are planted directly at the desired location.

When is it possible to transplant cushion phlox?

Transplanting cushion phlox is possible at any time from spring to autumn, as long as the soil is frost-free and the weather conditions are not too extreme.

How is the cushion phlox propagated?

The cushion phlox can be propagated in the following ways:

  • Cultivation from seeds
  • division of older plants
  • cuttings

Cuttings are usually planted in bunches with the cushion phlox.

When is the best planting time for the cushion phlox?

The best time for planting cushion phlox is spring. However, container plants from the trade can usually be planted at any time from spring to autumn, as long as they are sufficiently watered until they are established.

When does the cushion phlox bloom?

The cushion phlox usually blooms between April and June. However, some cultivars flower a little later.

Which soil does the cushion phlox prefer?

The cushion phlox feels comfortable on permeable soil without waterlogging. A certain amount of sand or gravel usually improves the growth conditions for the cushion phlox.

At what distance should the cushion phlox be planted as ground cover?

Since the cushion phlox shows rapid growth under suitable conditions, you can definitely keep distances of about 20 to 30 cm when planting. Particularly attractive effects can result if you plant different varieties with different flower colors next to each other.

tips

With a pruning after flowering, the cushion phlox can be rejuvenated similar to the winter heather. In addition, pruning can even encourage the cushion phlox to bloom again.

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