July 2022
I am not having success overwintering creeping phlox and dianthus. I was hoping to get some advice on the topic.
Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulate) and dianthus, (common names, carnations, pinks, sweet william) can be herbaceous perennial, biannual or annual. If you are having trouble overwintering, the first thing to check is whether you have the annual variety, which will not overwinter.
For perennial varieties, planted in the garden, the following steps taken in the fall will give you the best chance of overwintering your plants:
For phlox, after the flowers are finished blooming, divide by crown division if they are too big or you wish to propagate;
For both phlox and dianthus, cut the stalks back to just above ground level. This will help to direct energy to the root system over the winter;
Clean up around the plants to protect against pests and diseases. Both are susceptible to mites, leaf spot, crown rot and powdery mildew;
Ensure the ground is moist but not drenched going into the winter;
Apply a good layer of organic mulch (leaves or bark mulch) to insulate and protect the roots during the winter months and provide nutrients to the soil;
Take note of where the plants are so you don’t accidentally dig them up or plant over them in the spring.
Come spring, ensure the soil is enriched with a good organic mulch and fertilizer;
Ensure ‘right plant, right place’. Both prefer full sun, rich, organic soil and adequate water.
If your plants are in pots, gather them up and store them close together for protection from the wind. Place them alongside a south facing wall or another protected area which will offer a little more warmth.
Sources:
https://gardening.usask.ca/articles-and-lists/articles-plant-descriptions/perennials/dianthus.php
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gardening/flowers-shrubs-trees/winter-care-perennials-central-oregon
https://extension.umn.edu/flowers/tall-garden-phlox
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