3 methods of propagating phlox

Phlox is also known as the flame flower. The name is already an indication of the colorful and magnificent flower landscape that the perennial presents in the summer months. We will show you 3 methods of propagating phlox.

Increase by division

The best time for this popular method of propagation is in late autumn or spring. At these times, the perennial metabolism is down. As a result, it is only visible as a root and is easier to divide. Make sure that the ground is not frozen through and that you can get into the earth well with the spade. You should split your flame flower every three to five years to keep it from growing too dense. Otherwise phloxes could compete with each other for nutrients and light. How to properly propagate phlox by division.

Instructions:

1. Cutting and cutting: Remove dead shoots and prick around the phlox with a spade. Loosen the root ball from the earth and lift the flame flower out of the earth.
   
2. Division: the shrub Use a sharp knife or spade to cut vigorously between the shoots. If it is a large root ball, you can quarter it.
   
3. New location: If you have selected a new, sunny location, dig up soil there. Then mix this with compost and use part of the root ball.
   
4. Diploma: Spread the soil mixture in the hole. Water the new perennial properly.

Before dividing the flame flower, disinfect your knife or spade to avoid the transmission of bacteria. Do you want to keep phlox in your original location? Then, before planting, you should replace the soil to avoid disease.

Note: The perennial should have enough space to dry and spread out in its new location.

Propagation by cuttings

The right time is important here. This is in the spring before the flower buds are set. Use only healthy phlox mother plants for this type of propagation.

Instructions:

1. Cut: Just below the leaf knot, cut off shoots that are 5 to 15 centimeters long and have no flower roots. The length results from the size of the phlox. We recommend pruning the front part of the plant as this is where the flowering time will be longer and you will have more of it.
   
2. Remove leaves: Remove the bottom leaves by a good 1/3.
   
3. Put cuttings: The cuttings must not dry out, which is why you should hurry to move them. Put the shoot in a pot filled with moist seed compost. Set the shoot so low that it is stable.
   
4. Location of the pot: Put the pot in a warm and light place.
   
5. To water: Water the cuttings and always keep them moist. Avoid waterlogging.
   
6. Plant out: Once roots have formed, you can plant the perennial out.

Propagate by seeds

The sowing of the flame flower happens automatically in autumn. This is used to multiply your own phlox species. However, you can also harvest these ripe seeds. You should bear in mind that the resulting plant is not true to the variety and can bloom differently than the original plant. If you want a certain color or a certain type of growth, such as ground cover or high-growing phlox, you should buy the seeds from a specialist store. This avoids surprises in your garden.

How to propagate the seeds in a seed pot:

1. Preparation: Fill the growing pots with soil. Water the pots properly.
   
2. Sow seeds: Press a small hole in the middle of the earth. A single seed is placed in each hole. Close the hole with light pressure.
   
3. Cover: Cover the nursery pots lightly and place them in your greenhouse or on the windowsill.

It is advisable to sow the flame flower from February, as you will then have phloxes rich in flowers in spring. If you take seeds from your own harvest, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks.

Since phlox is a cold germ, you can also sow the seeds directly in the designated flower bed. We recommend:

• Leave self-harvested seeds in the refrigerator for a few days
  
• Harvest seeds and scatter them in the desired location - do not set too deep
  
• Direct sowing outdoors is possible in spring and autumn
  
• Germination time: 15-25 days
  
• Patience: by the following spring at the latest, you can expect a splendor of flowers

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