Dwarf Phlox Twinkle Star mixed
Dwarf Phlox Twinkle Star mixed
400 seeds
1. Sowing Indoors or Outdoors:
- Indoors: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost.
- Sow seeds on the surface of a moist, well-draining seed-starting mix. Lightly press the seeds into the soil but do not cover them, as they need light to germinate.
- Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of 65–70°F (18–21°C). Germination usually takes 10–14 days.
- Outdoors: Directly sow seeds outdoors after the last frost in spring when the soil has warmed up.
- Plant seeds 1/8 inch deep, spacing them 10–12 inches apart in well-drained soil.
2. Sunlight and Soil:
- Sunlight: Phlox needs full sun or partial shade to thrive. For the best blooms, aim for 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hotter climates.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Phlox performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0–7.0). Improve soil with compost or organic matter for better growth and flowering.
3. Watering:
- Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the blooming season. Water at the base to avoid wetting the leaves and reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
- Water regularly, but ensure the soil is not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
4. Care:
- Thinning: Once seedlings have a few leaves, thin them to about 10–12 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and healthy growth.
- Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during the growing season to promote lush foliage and abundant blooms.
- Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Cutting back spent flowers helps keep the plant tidy and promotes more growth.
5. General Tips:
- Dwarf Phlox 'Twinkle Star' is a compact variety, perfect for borders, container gardening, or hanging baskets due to its low-growing, spreading nature.
- Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Phlox is relatively low-maintenance, but if you live in a humid area, ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent diseases such as powdery mildew.
6. Harvesting:
- If you're growing Phlox for cut flowers, harvest stems early in the morning when the blooms are fully open. Stems can last up to 7–10 days in a vase.
Dwarf Phlox 'Twinkle Star' Mixed is a beautiful, colorful plant that adds a delightful burst of bloom to any garden. With a variety of pink, white, and purple hues, it’s perfect for filling in borders or containers and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its compact nature and ease of care make it a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced gardeners.