Fall Care for Summer Phlox: Cut Back, Clean Up & Mulch

Phlox paniculata Fall Routine

In autumn, after blooming finishes and foliage yellows:

1. Cut stems to 2–3″ above ground.
2. Remove all debris – Prevents powdery mildew overwintering.
3. Mulch 2–3″ (pine needles, leaves) if winters are very cold.

Why This Matters

Clean beds reduce disease pressure. Phlox emerges fresh in spring. No fertilizer now—wait for spring growth.