| Common Name | Annual Phlox , Drummond's Phlox |
| Genus | Phlox |
| Species | P. drummondii |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Life Cycle | Tender Annual |
| Tray Size | 8 |
| Plug Care | Do not allow plugs to dry out completely or become rootbound - plant soon after arrival or bump up into larger containers. If there are any buds or flowers upon arrival pinch them off. |
| Netting / Staking | Beneficial to have 1-2 layers of netting for support. The stems can get stuck in the netting during harvesting but it helps keep stems straight and upright, otherwise the plants have more of a sprawling habit. |
| Temperature Range | Frost sensitive annual - will only grow during the warmer months in most zones. Prefers cool summers and struggles in intense heat, drought, and wind. |
| Spacing | 6-9" |
| Soil Preference | Loose, fertile, well draining soil with a neutral pH. Incorporate a balanced granular fertilizer at time of planting and water with liquid nutrition regularly through the growth period. |
| Day Length | Facultative long day. Plant in full sun. |
| Pinching | Plants will branch naturally, but pinch off any flowers on short stems to encourage longer branching. |
| When to Plant | Plant in early spring, around the time of last frost. Protect young plants if the forecast calls for frost. Succession sow for continuous blooms all season. |
| Harvesting | Expect the first flowers approximately 8-10 weeks after transplanting, however this varies according to weather and temperature. The first flowers will be borne on short stems - regular pinching and pruning will encourage longer stems later in the season. Do not allow plants to set seed or they will shut down. Harvest a stem when approximately half the flowers are already open - the remaining buds will continue to open in the vase. |
| Post Harvest Care | Place cut stems immediately into cool water. Vase life is rather short at 5-7 days but these flowers add much whimsy and character to floral designs and are valuable for events. |
| Diseases / Insects | Prolonged periods of wet foliage and wet soil can cause onset of foliar and root disease. Good airflow and well draining soil are essential for success, especially in warm and humid climates. Common insect pests include thrips and aphids. |
| Bailey's Notes | We carry the more sought after colors of annual phlox including cherry caramel, crème brulee and blushing bride. These colors work well in wedding florals. They are notoriously difficult to start from seed, so we are very happy to have them available as plugs. |
| Resources |
North Carolina Extension Gardener Phlox drummondii How to Grow Phlox drummondii for cut flowers, The Kokoro Garden |