PRACTICAL GARDENING RESEARCH What to grow. What to buy. How to choose.
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Choose what to grow

Compare plants.

Put the light, root space and seasonal needs beside one another before choosing a place in your garden or home.

1 of 3 plants selected — add another to compare.

Growing requirements from the plant library. Cultivar and local conditions can change the details.
Care decision
A dense patch of pink creeping-phlox flowers with darker centers.
Creeping phloxPhlox subulata
LightFull sun; some dappled shade can help in hot, humid summers. Mt. Cuba Center: moss phlox
WaterModerate establishment moisture; established plants tolerate some drought. Avoid persistently wet crowns.
Soil & growing mixWell-drained soil; sandy, gravelly or rocky conditions can suit it.
Mature sizeCommonly 3–6 inches high; spread varies, with 2–3 feet listed by NC State. NC State Extension: Phlox subulata
Growing seasonMain flower display in spring; foliage may remain evergreen or semi-evergreen depending on conditions.
Winter & climateCommonly listed for USDA zones 3–9; local heat, moisture and cultivar performance also matter.
Container fitUsually planted in the ground. Check mature size and root-space guidance in the reference.
Place & varietyA broad hardiness range is not a guarantee for every exposure. Verify local summer performance and native status separately; some occurrences beyond the plant’s natural range are introductions.
Equipment to consider
Evidence & next steps

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These facts help compare choices. They do not establish that plants can share a pot, watering circuit or outdoor site. Check the full reference and local suitability before planting.

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