Phlox Overwatering: New Plant vs. Established

Killing with Kindness: Water Every 3 Days Is Too Much

New phlox with 3 dead stems likely overwatered. Established phlox rarely needs supplemental water. Cut dead stems, keep healthy one. Water only when leaves droop. Mulch with leaf mold/compost to retain moisture naturally.

Watering Reality Check

• New plants: water at planting, then weekly if no rain
• Established: rainfall usually sufficient
• Mulch reduces watering needs dramatically
• Overwatering causes root rot, stem death

Match watering to plant maturity and weather, not schedule.