Companion Plants for Creeping Phlox

The Importance of Companion Planting

If you're a gardener, you've probably heard of the term "companion planting" before. This is the practice of planting different species of plants together in order to benefit one another. Companion planting can help improve soil health, reduce pests and diseases, and even increase yields. But what are the best companion plants for creeping phlox?

What is Creeping Phlox?

Creeping phlox, also known as Phlox subulata, is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial plant that is native to North America. It produces masses of small, fragrant flowers in the spring and early summer, and its foliage stays green throughout the year.

Companion Plants for Creeping Phlox

When it comes to companion planting with creeping phlox, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you'll want to choose plants that have similar growing conditions to creeping phlox. This means they should prefer well-drained soil, full sun to partial shade, and moderate moisture. Second, you'll want to choose plants that complement the colors and textures of creeping phlox.

1. Dwarf Iris

Dwarf iris is a great companion plant for creeping phlox because it has similar growing conditions and produces beautiful flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white. Its foliage also complements the evergreen leaves of creeping phlox.

2. Sedum

Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a low-growing succulent that is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It produces clusters of tiny flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow, which complement the colors of creeping phlox.

3. Creeping Thyme

Creeping thyme is a low-growing herb that produces fragrant leaves and small, pink or lavender flowers. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it a great companion plant for creeping phlox.

4. Creeping Jenny

Creeping jenny, also known as moneywort, is a fast-spreading groundcover that produces bright yellow flowers in the summer. It prefers moist soil and partial shade, making it a good choice for planting alongside creeping phlox in areas that receive afternoon shade.

5. Salvia

Salvia, also known as sage, is a perennial plant that produces spikes of blue, purple, or red flowers in the summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, making it a great companion plant for creeping phlox.

6. Dianthus

Dianthus, also known as pinks, is a low-growing perennial that produces fragrant pink, white, or red flowers in the late spring and early summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making it a good choice for planting with creeping phlox.

7. Russian Sage

Russian sage is a tall, airy perennial that produces spikes of lavender-blue flowers in the summer. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making it a good choice for planting behind creeping phlox.

8. Coneflowers

Coneflowers, also known as echinacea, are tall, showy perennials that produce large, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, making them a great companion plant for creeping phlox.

9. Black-Eyed Susans

Black-eyed susans, also known as rudbeckia, are low-maintenance perennials that produce bright yellow or orange flowers with dark centers. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun, making them a good choice for planting with creeping phlox.

10. Daylilies

Daylilies are hardy perennials that produce large, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of orange, yellow, and red. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, making them a great companion plant for creeping phlox.

Maintaining Companion Plants for Creeping Phlox

Once you've chosen your companion plants for creeping phlox, it's important to maintain them properly. This means watering them regularly, fertilizing them as needed, and pruning them back when necessary to prevent overcrowding. You should also be on the lookout for any signs of pests or diseases and take action quickly to prevent them from spreading. By maintaining your companion plants properly, you'll help ensure that they thrive alongside your creeping phlox.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my creeping phlox and its companion plants?

You should water your creeping phlox and its companion plants regularly, especially during periods of drought. Aim to water them deeply once a week, rather than giving them shallow waterings more frequently.

2. Can I plant other types of phlox alongside creeping phlox?

Yes, you can plant other types of phlox alongside creeping phlox, such as tall garden phlox (Phlox paniculata) or woodland phlox (Phlox divaricata). However, keep in mind that these plants have different growing requirements than creeping phlox, so be sure to choose the right location and provide the proper care.

3. Do I need to fertilize my companion plants for creeping phlox?

It depends on the specific plants you've chosen, but in general, most companion plants for creeping phlox don't require heavy fertilization. You can use a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring, or top-dress with compost or well-rotted manure.

4. Should I mulch around my creeping phlox and its companion plants?

Yes, mulching around your creeping phlox and its companion plants can help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use a light layer of organic mulch, such as shredded leaves or straw, and avoid piling it up against the stems of the plants.

5. Can I plant creeping phlox in containers with its companion plants?

Yes, you can plant creeping phlox in containers with its companion plants, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate all of the plants and has good drainage. Choose plants that have similar growing requirements and complement each other visually.

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