Perennial Phlox Flowers

Phlox are grown from small dark brown seeds which are contained in pods beneath the flowers. When collected they should be stored in a cool dry place until planting. If germinated correctly, these seeds can develop into beautiful flowers.

History

Phlox originated in North America in the 1600s, and were then gradually introduced into Europe. Phlox were originally grown in varieties that had white or deep magenta red flowers, but after horticultural experimentation, other varieties were bred that produced flowers in many other colors. In the 1930s and 1940s, phlox was one of the most common perennial garden flowers, but it decreased in popularity until the 1990s. Since the late 1990s, however, phlox has regained some of its popularity.

Varieties

There are several different types of phlox flowers, such as sand phlox, which grows well in wildflower gardens or rock gardens; creeping phlox, which works well in shaded areas; and moss phlox, which needs direct sunlight. Smooth phlox grows in semi-shaded areas or in full sunlight, and wild sweet William phlox grows well in shaded areas.

Planting Phlox Seeds

When planting perennial phlox seeds, sow the seeds indoors and then plant them outside later, or plant them directly into a secluded location in a flowerbed. If planting the seeds directly into the flowerbed, it may be necessary to separate the seedlings at a later date. The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil, fertilized using a liquid fertilizer and watered frequently to ensure growth. They usually take 4 to 6 weeks to germinate.

Height

Different types of phlox grow to different heights. Sand Phlox can grow up to 6 inches tall, and creeping phlox, which is scented, can grow up to 12 inches tall. Moss phlox can grow up to 6 inches tall, and wild sweet William phlox can grow up to 12 inches tall. Smooth phlox is one of the tallest varieties, growing up to 4 feet tall.

Colors

Phlox can have a variety of different-colored flowers. Sand phlox have green leaves and pale blue flowers; and creeping phlox have strongly scented, deep purple flowers. Moss phlox have purple, deep pink or vibrant red flowers; smooth phlox have white, purple, red or pink flowers; and wild sweet William phlox (otherwise known as woodland phlox) have pink, purple or blue flowers.

Phlox can be grown in any garden, all they need is a small amount of care and attention.

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