10k saves
Phlox
We track 132 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 24 most-saved Phlox varieties
See all 132 Phlox varieties →Search this genus →
9 species of Phlox
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Phlox in Sow
Save the Phlox you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Phlox
Whats common across all Phlox varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 40 most-grown of them.
The Phlox year
- DivideMarch and September90% of varieties
Divide crowded clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- DeadheadJune–August57% of varieties
Remove spent blooms to encourage rebloom and prevent self-seeding
- Check for PestsJune–August55% of varieties
Monitor for powdery mildew; ensure good air flow
- FertilizeMarch53% of varieties
Apply balanced fertilizer as new growth emerges
- PruneMay48% of varieties
Shear back lightly (1/3) immediately after flowering to encourage dense growth.
- Spring CleanupFebruary40% of varieties
Cut all previous year's dead stems back to the ground
Do
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape
- Water regularly during dry spells 🌱
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist 🌱
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
Avoid
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t neglect pruning after flowering
- Don’t prune in late fall or winter
What goes wrong with Phlox
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | Sticky residue and distorted leaves | Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. |
| Spider Mites | Fine webbing and speckled foliage | Increase humidity and apply insecticidal soap |
| Spider mites | Webbing and speckled leaves | Increase humidity and spray with miticide |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Powdery Mildew | White powdery coating on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide |
| Powdery mildew | White powder on leaves | Improve air circulation and apply fungicide. |
| Root Rot | Wilting and yellowing leaves | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
Making more Phlox
Cuttings
- Take softwood cuttings in late spring.
- Remove lower leaves and dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist potting mix.
- Keep soil moist and place in bright, indirect light.
- Roots develop in 4-6 weeks.
Division
- Dig up mature clump in early spring or fall.
- Separate into sections with a sharp knife or spade.
- Plant divisions immediately at same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Allow 6 weeks for establishment.
Phlox questions
How many types of Phlox are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 132 distinct Phlox varieties. The most popular — ranked by 10k real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Phlox grow in?
Across its varieties, Phlox covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Phlox bloom?
Most Phlox varieties bloom in mid-summer, late spring, mid-spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Phlox should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.