How to Grow Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers
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Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers
Phlox subulata & Sedum spp.
flowerCreeping Phlox and Sedum are low-growing, mat-forming perennials that create vibrant carpet-like coverage across garden beds, slopes, and rock gardens. These hardy groundcovers offer colorful spring (Phlox) and summer (Sedum) blooms with minimal maintenance requirements. Both thrive in well-draining soil and are drought-tolerant once established, making them ideal for xeriscaping and low-water landscapes.
When should you plant Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers in your zone?
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Example Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers blooms
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Creeping Phlox thrives in zones 3-9; Sedum varieties range from zones 2-11 depending on species
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Get my Creeping Phlox & Sedum Groundcovers timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (Transplant)
4-6 weeksYoung plants are 2-4 inches tall with compact foliage and minimal branching
Water regularly to establish deep root systems; mulch lightly around plants but keep mulch 1 inch from stems; avoid overwatering
Vegetative Spread
8-12 weeksPlants expand horizontally, stems elongate and root at contact points, foliage becomes denser and covers gaps
Maintain consistent moisture during dry spells; allow stems to creep freely; deadhead spent flowers on Phlox to encourage continued blooming and spreading
Flowering (Phlox: Spring, Sedum: Summer)
4-8 weeksPhlox produces tight clusters of small flowers in pink, white, red, or purple (April-June); Sedum develops star-shaped flower clusters in pink, red, yellow, or white (July-September)
Continue deadheading Phlox flowers to extend bloom period; provide occasional water during dry spells; do not fertilize heavily as this reduces flower production and promotes excess foliage
Maturation & Density
6+ monthsDense, weed-suppressing mat forms with complete ground coverage; Sedum foliage may develop reddish tones in cooler weather
Reduce watering to only during extended drought; avoid fertilizer; allow Sedum seed heads to persist for fall/winter interest; light pruning or shearing in early spring removes dead growth
Winter Dormancy (varies by region)
3-4 monthsCreeping Phlox foliage often remains evergreen in warmer zones, semi-evergreen in colder zones; Sedum foliage persists year-round with color changes in cool temperatures
No watering needed unless drought conditions persist; Sedum seed heads provide winter interest and wildlife habitat; mulch is not necessary for hardy varieties
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe; provide occasional moisture during dry spells
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Spray with strong water stream; use insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators like ladybugs
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Improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering; apply sulfur dust or baking soda spray; remove affected foliage; choose disease-resistant varieties
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and
(Phytophthora, Fusarium)
Ensure excellent drainage; do not overwater; remove and discard affected plants; treat soil with fungicide if widespread
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and
Remove debris and mulch that provides shelter; hand-pick; use copper barriers or slug bait; encourage natural predators
Uses
Erosion control and slope stabilization
HouseholdBoth plants' spreading, rooting stems stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes, banks, and hillsides. Their dense growth protects soil from rainfall impact while allowing water infiltration. [source]
Pollinator and beneficial insect habitat
WildlifeCreeping Phlox flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hoverflies in spring; Sedum attracts diverse pollinators and beneficial insects throughout summer. Both provide shelter for ground-dwelling beneficial insects. [source]
Low-maintenance groundcover and weed suppression
HouseholdOnce established, dense mats suppress weeds naturally, eliminating the need for frequent weeding. Both are drought-tolerant and require minimal fertilizer, water, or pest management after the first season. [source]
Rock garden and landscape design accent
CraftTheir low profile and colorful flowers make them ideal for rock gardens, alpine troughs, decorative borders, between stepping stones, and container arrangements. They create visual interest in Japanese gardens and minimalist designs. [source]
Sedum as a traditional herbal remedy
MedicinalCertain Sedum species (notably Sedum acre) have been used in traditional medicine for minor skin wounds and inflammation, though internal use is not recommended. Topical preparations of Sedum have mild antimicrobial and astringent properties. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Groundcovers are grown for foliage and flowers rather than harvest, but stems can be taken for propagation in spring or early summer by cutting 2-3 inch segments and pressing into moist soil. Deadhead spent Phlox flowers regularly to extend blooming. Allow some Sedum seed heads to remain for winter interest and self-seeding.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata) was a favorite of Thomas Jefferson and is sometimes called 'Moss Phlox' because of its needle-like, moss-like foliage that remains attractive year-round in many climates.
- 🌱 Sedum plants are called 'stonecrops' because they thrive in rocky, poor soils where most plants fail, and some species can grow directly from crevices in stone walls and roofs without any soil at all.
- 🌱 Both plants are succulents or semi-succulents that store water in their leaves, allowing them to survive extended droughts; Sedum can lose up to 95% of its water content and still recover when rehydrated.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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