It's a good plant for sunny spots with loose, informal plantings. Dwarf types are just 6 to 8 inches tall, while others reach 15 to 18 inches. This plant thrives in zones 2-11 of the U.S.D.A Plant Hardiness Zone Map. Start annual phlox indoors from seed - you ll have the best selection of color with seeds. Select a suitable site for planting.
Annual phlox loves full sun with average, well-drained soil and moderate water.
Pinch off any blooms from seedlings before you plant to direct growth into strong roots. Plant annual phlox seedlings 4 to 6 inches apart in early spring once nighttime temperatures are regularly above 35 degrees. Prepare the bed by working in a little compost or sphagnum peat moss. Mulch with dried grass clippings, pine needles, wood chips or another organic material. Water in the mornings, taking care not to spray the leaves, which are prone to disease.