Q.Are roots on creeping phlox hairlike?
I received an online nursery order and plants are in terrible shape. Can’t tell which end is the root and which is top of plant. I can send photo to your email if you give your address out online.

One end should have slightly larger roots that may appear somewhat woody. The finer roots should be beneath the thicker ones. It is perfectly legitimate to call the seller for advice as well. Phlox subulata, aka creeping phlox, has a shallow root system. You could probably plant the root mass horizontally 1-2 inches into the soil. Water in well and in future years provide some winter protection with evergreen boughs or a thin layer of chopped leaves. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/creeping-phlox/creeping-phlox-planting.htm