When to plant Garden Phlox?

Garden phlox thrives in full sun or partial shade, though flowering is most prolific with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Choose a spot with good air circulation to reduce the risk of powdery mildew, a common issue with this plant. The ideal soil is moisture-retentive loam or clay that drains reasonably well; phlox dislikes both drought and waterlogging. Prepare the planting area by digging in plenty of well-rotted compost or manure to improve soil structure and fertility. If your soil is heavy clay, work in some horticultural grit to aid drainage. Plant container-grown phlox in March, April, May, September, or October, avoiding periods of frost or drought. Autumn planting gives roots time to establish before the following summer, but spring planting works equally well if you keep plants well watered in their first season. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was growing in its pot. Space plants 45 cm apart to allow for their mature spread and to promote airflow between clumps. Firm the soil gently around the roots and water thoroughly to settle them in. Apply a 5 cm layer of organic mulch such as garden compost or bark chips around the base, keeping it clear of the stems to prevent rot. Water regularly for the first few weeks until new growth indicates the plant is established. In exposed gardens, taller varieties may benefit from staking or the support of neighbouring plants.