Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is a popular flowering perennial prized for its mats of bright, colorful blooms in spring. But sometimes this beauty fails to flower as expected, leaving puzzled gardeners wondering why their phlox isn’t blooming.
There are several potential causes for creeping phlox not blooming. By understanding the most common reasons and implementing corrective care, you can get your phlox to flower again.
Top Reasons Creeping Phlox Doesn’t Bloom
Here are the most frequent culprits when creeping phlox doesn’t bloom:
Insufficient Sunlight
Creeping phlox needs at least 6 hours of direct sun daily to bloom properly. Too much shade leads to sparse, weakened growth and no flowers. Check that phlox gets sun most of the day. Morning light is ideal. If light is insufficient now, relocate to a new sunny spot.
Poor Growing Conditions
Proper drainage and even moisture are vital. Wet, heavy soil causes root rot. Improve drainage by mixing in compost or gravel. Mulch to conserve moisture. Let soil dry some between watering. Extreme heat and drought also inhibit blooms. Ensure 1-2 inches of weekly water if rain is lacking.
Improper Soil pH
Phlox thrives best in slightly acidic to neutral soil around pH 6.0-7.0. Use a soil test kit and amend pH accordingly if needed.
Lack of Fertilization
Flowering plants require nutrients to bloom well Apply balanced fertilizer yearly in early spring Organics like compost also feed phlox, Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers,
Overcrowding
After several years, overcrowded phlox often stops blooming. Plants become rootbound and can’t produce new shoots and flowers. Divide congested clumps every 2-3 years. Replant divisions 12-18 inches apart to rejuvenate.
Excessive Shade
Even though creeping phlox tolerates some shade, insufficient sunlight results in reduced flowering. For best blooms, ensure plants receive at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Morning light is ideal. Relocate to a new spot if needed.
Harsh Winter Damage
Severe cold can injure or kill phlox. Signs include dieback and lack of regrowth. Unfortunately little can be done except prune out dead stems and hope warmer weather brings renewal. Apply winter mulch next year.
Improper Pruning
Pruning phlox at the wrong time removes flower buds. Only cut back after initial spring bloom. Then deadhead to encourage rebloom. Don’t cut too far down.
Pests and Diseases
Chewing insects, mites, and powdery mildew can damage phlox, impeding flowering. Check for pests. Remove affected parts immediately. Use appropriate organic treatments. Improve air circulation between plants.
Age of Plants
Like all perennials, phlox flowers best its first 2-4 years then slowly declines. After 4-6 years, replace overgrown patches with younger plants for renewed flowering.
How to Get Creeping Phlox Blooming Again
With proper care, you can get your phlox flowering freely again:
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Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours daily) with well-drained, evenly moist soil.
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Test soil pH and amend if needed to 6.0-7.0 range.
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Fertilize in early spring with balanced fertilizer.
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Water during drought. Provide 1-2 inches weekly if rainfall is inadequate.
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Divide crowded clumps every 2-3 years in early spring.
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Propagate by stem cuttings in summer to start new plants.
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Prune only after spring bloom then deadhead to encourage rebloom.
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Monitor for pests and diseases. Take prompt action if found.
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Replace aging plants with younger ones every 4-6 years for optimal blooms.
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Protect from harsh winter cold with mulch.
With proper site conditions and care, your creeping phlox will flower abundantly once again. Evaluate cultural issues and take corrective steps now to rejuvenate plants. Then enjoy a colorful carpet of phlox blossoms next spring.
When Not in Bloom, Phlox Still Shines
Even when not flowering, creeping phlox remains an attractive and versatile landscape plant. Its needle-like foliage forms an evergreen mat that works well as a groundcover. The low, spreading habit also withstands foot traffic. Consider using phlox between stepping stones or along garden pathways.
Low-Maintenance, Weed-Suppressing Groundcover
An added benefit of creeping phlox is its easy care and reliability. It tolerates various soils, climates, and challenging sites. It’s less prone to powdery mildew than other phlox. The dense mat form crowds out weeds, reducing garden maintenance. For flawless phlox blooms with little work, make creeping phlox part of your landscape!
Fertilizing Phlox Help Them Bloom
Fertilize phlox in the spring when new growth begins and when flower buds form to encourage them to bloom more vigorously. Use a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer or top dress with compost.
Common Reasons Why Phlox Aren’t Blooming
Phlox prefer sunny conditions. If they are not planted in full sun and not blooming, dig them up and move them to a sunnier spot in your garden. If they have become leggy, cut back on your fertilizer regimen. Fertilize with a balanced formula if you have neglected this task for a few years. Divide them if they have become crowded. Dividing is a great way to rejuvenate an old clump and create new, free plants.
When Does Creeping Phlox Bloom? – Flowering Tips
FAQ
Why is my creeping phlox not flowering?
- Problem: Creeping phlox needs at least 6 hours of full sun for optimal flowering.
- Solution: Relocate the plant to a sunnier spot if possible.
What does creeping phlox look like when not in bloom?
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Foliage:The leaves are small, awl-shaped (like a tool used for working with leather), and form a cushion or mat.
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Growth Habit:Creeping phlox is a mat-forming groundcover, spreading by above-ground leafy stems (called stolons).
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Year-Round Appeal:Even when not in bloom, the green foliage remains attractive, making it a good choice for groundcover and adding an earthy, “overgrown” look to gardens.
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Dormancy:While the foliage may recede or appear dry during colder months, it typically regrows in the spring.
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Other NamesCreeping phlox is also known as Moss Phlox
How to make creeping phlox bloom?
- Six hours of sunlight needed; afternoon shade prevents a “floral fry-up.”
- Balanced fertilizer with phosphorus boosts blooming; adjust watering with seasons.
- Prune and deadhead for continuous blooms; troubleshoot with quick fixes.
What month does creeping phlox bloom?
Tall Garden Phlox bloom throughout the summer and into early fall. Their flowering season arrives in July and continues into September. Creeping Phlox bloom during spring, usually from March through May or April through June depending on your climate and weather conditions.