What Preparation Is Needed for Creeping Phlox?

Question

I have a hill in my front yard (about 3-4 ft. ) leading down to the road. So that we don’t have to weedwhack it, I’d like to plant a ground cover, and really like the look of creeping phlox. To plant this (I’d probably buy small plants that have already been started, not seeds) I am wondering how to prepare the grassy hill. Do I need to till it all up? Or just the area where I place the plants? Will the plants just expand out over the grass and smother it? (ideal)

Thanks so much for your help!

Answer 1

Lisa, here is a link to an article on creeping phlox: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/creeping-phlox/creeping-phlox-planting.htm
I don’t recommend phlox for the application you are wanting. It will not smother out grass, grass overtakes phlox and smothers it out. Personally, I think creeping phlox is used best in beds where it can be “tended to”.
The plant I recommend for ground cover is Blue Pacific Juniper. It is aggressive without being invasive, will smother weeds and grass, has virtually no pests or disease problems, grows 10-12 inches tall, covers appx. 60 sq. ft. per plant, tolerates almost everything except dense shade and waterlogged soil, AND is evergreen. Best of all, it requires no maintenance.

Answer 2

If you want to go with the creeping phlox, till the area to get rid of the grass and space your plants about 6-12 inches apart. They will eventually spread into one another and cover the area. While they establish, I would suggest putting down some mulch to keep the weeds (and grass) out.