Creeping Phlox Companion Plants: How to Choose and Grow

The Beauty of Creeping Phlox

If you're looking for a low-maintenance ground cover that will add some color and texture to your garden, then creeping phlox might be just what you need. This hardy plant produces a profusion of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, white, and blue, and it's easy to grow in a wide range of soil types and conditions.

But while creeping phlox is striking on its own, it can also be used as a companion plant to create even more interest and variety in your garden beds. In this post, we'll explore some of the best creeping phlox companion plants and how to grow them successfully.

Choosing the Right Creeping Phlox Companion Plants

Before we dive into specific companion plant suggestions, it's important to consider a few key factors when choosing plants to grow alongside creeping phlox:

• Soil type:

  Creeping phlox prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH (around 6.0-6.5). Look for companion plants that have similar soil requirements.

• Light exposure:

  Creeping phlox thrives in full sun to partial shade (at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day). Consider the light needs of your potential companion plants as well.

• Growth habit:

  Creeping phlox naturally spreads and forms a mat-like cover over the ground. Choose companion plants that won't compete too heavily for space or nutrients, or that can be trained to grow vertically to avoid crowding.

Creeping Phlox Companion Plant Ideas

Now that you have a sense of what to look for in companion plants, let's explore some specific options that pair well with creeping phlox.

1. Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

Candytuft is a low-growing perennial that produces clusters of white or pink flowers in the spring. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, making it an excellent partner for creeping phlox. Plant candytuft alongside your phlox for a stunning display of contrasting colors and textures.

Growing Tips:

• Plant candytuft seeds or transplants in early spring or fall.

• Space plants 8-12 inches apart.

• Cut back spent blooms after flowering to encourage more growth.

2. Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis)

Blue star creeper is a fast-spreading ground cover that produces tiny blue flowers throughout the growing season. It's a great choice for planting alongside creeping phlox to create a sea of blue and purple hues. Blue star creeper prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.

Growing Tips:

• Plant blue star creeper in early spring or early fall.

• Space plants 6-12 inches apart.

• Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist.

3. Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Sedums are a diverse group of low-growing succulent plants that come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colors. They're often used as ground covers, and many varieties produce colorful flowers in the summer and fall. Sedums prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making them a great match for creeping phlox.

Growing Tips:

• Plant sedums in the spring or fall.

• Space plants according to their mature size (larger varieties will need more space).

• Water only when soil is dry to the touch.

4. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme is a fragrant herb that produces tiny pink or purple flowers in the summer. It's an excellent choice for planting alongside creeping phlox because it prefers similar growing conditions and forms a low-growing mat of foliage that complements the phlox nicely.

Growing Tips:

• Plant creeping thyme in early spring or early fall.

• Space plants 8-12 inches apart.

• Prune back after flowering to keep plants tidy.

5. Hostas (Hosta spp.)

Hostas are shade-loving perennials that come in a range of sizes and colors, from small, compact plants to large specimens with huge leaves. While they aren't low-growing like many of the other plants on this list, hostas can be used as vertical accents that add structure and texture to a garden bed alongside creeping phlox.

Growing Tips:

• Plant hostas in the spring or fall.

• Space plants according to their mature size (larger varieties will need more space).

• Provide consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry spells.

Choosing the right companion plants for creeping phlox can help you create a more dynamic and interesting garden bed. When selecting plants, consider factors like soil type, light exposure, and growth habit to ensure that they'll thrive alongside your phlox. By experimenting with different combinations of plants, you can create a unique and beautiful garden that's sure to impress.

FAQs

1. Is creeping phlox invasive?

No, creeping phlox is not considered invasive. While it spreads readily and can form dense mats of foliage, it's not usually aggressive enough to take over other plants or areas of the garden.

2. How often should I water my creeping phlox?

Creeping phlox prefers consistently moist soil but doesn't like to be waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during dry spells, and avoid overhead watering, which can cause disease.

3. Can I grow creeping phlox in containers?

Yes, creeping phlox can be grown in containers as long as the container is at least 12 inches deep and has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and water regularly to keep soil moist but not saturated.

4. Can I plant creeping phlox in full shade?

While creeping phlox prefers full sun to partial shade, it can tolerate some shade. However, it may not flower as prolifically in shady conditions.

5. How do I propagate creeping phlox?

Creeping phlox can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Dig up a mature clump and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately and water well.