How to Grow Phlox in Idaho

Phlox is a vibrant flowering plant that can add a burst of color to any garden. With its variety of colors, sizes, and species, phlox is particularly popular among home gardeners. For those living in Idaho, growing phlox can be a rewarding experience, providing beauty and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. This article will guide you through the process of growing phlox in Idaho, covering everything from selecting the right variety to caring for your plants.

Understanding Phlox

Before diving into the planting and care of phlox, it’s important to understand what this plant is. Phlox belongs to the Polemoniaceae family and is native to North America. There are several species of phlox, but the two most commonly grown are:

• Garden Phlox (Phlox paniculata): This perennial blooms from mid-summer to early fall and can reach heights of 1 to 4 feet. It’s known for its fragrant flowers and is often used in borders and flower beds.

• Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata): This ground-covering perennial blooms in spring and stays low to the ground, only reaching about 6 inches high. It’s perfect for rock gardens or as a border plant.

In Idaho, both types of phlox can thrive, offering different aesthetics for various garden styles.

Choosing the Right Variety

When selecting phlox for your garden in Idaho, consider factors like bloom time, height, and color. The climate in Idaho varies between regions—from mountainous areas to flat plains—so take into account your local growing conditions:

• Hardiness Zone: Most of Idaho falls within USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 7. Choosing varieties that are suited for these zones will improve your success rate.

• Sun Exposure: Phlox generally prefers full sun to partial shade. Garden phlox thrives best in full sun with at least six hours of sunlight per day.

• Color Preferences: Phlox comes in shades of pink, purple, white, red, and blue. Depending on your overall landscape design, you may prefer specific colors that complement other plants.

Preparing Your Garden Bed

Once you’ve chosen your phlox variety, it’s time to prepare your garden bed. Proper preparation is crucial for the successful growth of your plants.

Soil Quality

Phlox prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil pH should ideally be between 6.0 and 7.0. Here are steps to prepare your soil:

1. Test Your Soil: Conduct a soil test kit available at garden centers or through local extension services. This will help you determine pH levels and nutrient content.

2. Amend the Soil: Based on your soil test results, you may need to amend the soil with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.

3. Tilling: Turn over the soil to a depth of about 12 inches using a shovel or rototiller. Mix in any amendments thoroughly.

Location Selection

Choose a location that receives full sun during most of the day while ensuring good air circulation around the plants. Avoid areas where water tends to pool as this can lead to root rot.

Planting Phlox

The best time to plant phlox in Idaho is during spring after the last frost or in early fall before winter sets in. Here’s how to plant:

1. Spacing: Plant garden phlox about 18 to 24 inches apart because they tend to grow larger than creeping phlox which should be spaced about 12 inches apart.

2. Digging Holes: Dig holes that are slightly larger than the root ball of your plants.

3. Planting: Place each plant into its hole and fill it with soil, making sure not to bury the crown (the area where the roots meet the stem). Water generously after planting.

Watering and Fertilizing

While phlox is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it needs consistent moisture while young:

Watering

• Water deeply once per week during dry spells.
• Avoid overhead watering as this can cause fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plants.

Fertilizing

In general, phlox does not require heavy feeding; however, a balanced fertilizer can promote lush growth:

• Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that encourage foliage over blooms.

Pruning and Deadheading

To maintain healthy growth and encourage blooming:

Pruning

• After blooming ends in late summer or early fall, cut back garden phlox stems by one-third.
• In spring, remove any dead stems from winter dieback before new growth appears.

Deadheading

Regularly remove spent flowers throughout the blooming season. This practice encourages further flowering rather than allowing plants to set seed.

Pest and Disease Management

Though generally resilient, phlox can encounter some pests and diseases:

Common Pests

• Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from plants; treat with insecticidal soap.
• Spider Mites: Tiny pests that thrive in hot weather; increase humidity around plants or use miticides accordingly.

Diseases

• Powdery Mildew: A common fungal disease; avoid overhead watering and ensure proper spacing for air circulation.
• Root Rot: Caused by excessive moisture; ensure well-drained soil and avoid waterlogged conditions.

Winter Care for Phlox

As winter approaches, proper care ensures that your phlox returns strong in spring:

1. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your plants after they die back in fall; this helps insulate roots against freezing temperatures.
2. Cut Back: Cut back dead foliage after frost has killed off plant tops.
3. Avoid Overwatering: In winter months, especially if snow cover is present, avoid watering as excess moisture can lead to root rot.

Conclusion

Growing phlox in Idaho can be an enjoyable endeavor that enhances your garden’s beauty while supporting local ecosystems by attracting pollinators. By following these guidelines on selection, planting, caring for your plants, managing pests and diseases, and preparing for winter, you will ensure that your phlox thrives season after season. With patience and attention to detail, you’ll soon enjoy breathtaking blooms right outside your door!