How to Divide Moss Phlox
Moss phlox is also known as creeping phlox, or botanically as phlox subulata. As an evergreen with nice spring flowers, it works well as a ground cover. Propagation is best done by dividing the plants. This can help extend the area of coverage or provide more plants to sell or give away. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones of three through nine.
Things You’ll Need
- Garden fork or shovel
- Compost
- Water
- Divide a moss phlox in the springtime right after the plant is finished blooming. This ensures the plant is dormant and the ground is still warm enough to be inviting to the new plant offsets.
- Have a good garden fork or shovel to get in under the plant. You need to have a sturdy and big enough shovel so that you don’t damage the roots by chopping them up into small pieces.
- Get your shovel or garden fork underneath the entire plant and remove it from the ground completely. Be really careful of the root system. Division works when the entire plant is out of the ground. Never divide a plant while it is still in the ground.
- Shake off the soil from the plant roots and then either hand pull the plant apart making smaller plant clumps from the original or get a sharp spade and divide the plant up that way. Make sure each clump has a good viable root stock.
- Find another good spot to put the plants you divided. Find a full sun or partial shade location and dig a hole. Put in 2 to 3 inches of compost and the plant division you just made. Loosely cover with the other soil. The crown should be even with the soil top. Water lightly. By dividing plants you should always have healthier plants by not allowing them to become root bound, and you will have several new plants that you don’t have to pay for. It is a fun and frugal way to get the most out of your garden and landscape.