Peonies are beloved for their stunning blooms, but their short bloom period can leave gardeners wanting more. Luckily, planting Phlox alongside your peonies can help extend the time when your garden is in full bloom.
Phlox comes in many varieties and colors, making it easy to find the perfect match for your peonies. One option is to plant Phlox paniculata, which blooms in late summer and can create a stunning backdrop for peonies. Another option is to choose early-blooming varieties of Phlox, such as Phlox divaricata, to extend the bloom time of your garden in the spring.
One technique for extending the bloom time of your Phlox is to stagger the planting of different varieties. By choosing early, mid, and late-blooming varieties, you can enjoy Phlox blooms for several months. Another option is to deadhead your Phlox regularly to encourage reblooming throughout the season.
In addition to their beautiful blooms, Phlox are also butterfly magnets, making them a great addition to any garden. Butterflies are attracted to the nectar-rich flowers of Phlox, which provide an important food source for them.
At Natchez Glen House, we've found that planting Phlox paniculata 'Jeana' alongside our peonies has been a great way to extend the bloom time of our garden. 'Jeana' is a late-blooming variety of Phlox that attracts a stunning amount of butterflies.
By planting Phlox alongside your peonies, you can create a stunning and long-lasting display in your garden. Experiment with different varieties and techniques to find the perfect combination for your space.