Nothing beats the appeal of garden phlox plants. These tall, eye-catching perennials are ideal for sunny borders. In addition, the large clusters of pink, purple, lavender or white flowers bloom for several weeks in summer, and make excellent cut flowers. Growing hardy garden phlox is simple and so is its general care.

Info on Garden Phlox Garden phlox (Phlox paniculata), also called summer phlox, is a sun-loving perennial with a long flowering season. Large clusters of flowers, called panicles, sit atop stems that grow 3 to 4 feet (91 cm. to 1 m.) tall. This native American wildflower thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 to 8. Growing hardy garden phlox is a challenge in hot, humid areas because the plant is sensitive to powdery mildew. Watch for foliage that looks as though it has been dusted with talcum powder, and pinch off the affected leaves. In severe cases, treat the plants with fungicide. You may be able to avoid powdery mildew by choosing varieties labeled as “mildew resistant.”