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Creeping phlox (Phlox subulata) is a popular perennial ground cover known for its vibrant spring blooms and low-growing habit. It creates a colorful carpet in gardens and is often used on slopes, rock gardens, and borders. To enhance its visual appeal and create a lush, diverse landscape, pairing creeping phlox with other ground covers can be highly effective. Here are some of the best options to consider.
Top Ground Covers to Pair with Creeping Phlox
Choosing the right companion plants depends on factors such as sunlight, soil type, and water needs. The following ground covers complement creeping phlox well and add texture, color, and interest to your garden throughout the seasons.
1. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Sedum is a hardy, drought-tolerant succulent that pairs beautifully with creeping phlox. Its fleshy leaves and star-shaped flowers provide contrasting textures and colors. Sedum varieties like ‘Autumn Joy’ bloom in late summer and fall, extending the color display in your garden.
2. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
Creeping Jenny offers vibrant chartreuse foliage and small yellow flowers. It thrives in moist, shady areas but can also tolerate sun. Its trailing habit complements the low growth of creeping phlox, creating a lush, colorful ground cover.
3. Blue Star Creeper (Isotoma fluviatilis)
This charming ground cover features tiny, star-shaped blue flowers and dense mat-like growth. It blooms in spring and summer, adding a splash of blue that pairs nicely with the pink and purple hues of creeping phlox.
4. Thyme (Thymus spp.)
Many thyme varieties, like creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum), are excellent ground covers with fragrant leaves and small flowers. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Their low-growing, spreading habit makes them ideal companions for creeping phlox.
5. Moss
For shaded areas, moss provides a soft, lush green carpet that contrasts with the bright colors of creeping phlox. It requires little maintenance and can create a natural, woodland look in your garden.
Tips for Combining Ground Covers
When planting ground covers together, consider their growth habits and environmental needs. Ensure they have similar sunlight, water, and soil requirements to thrive side by side. Mix textures and colors thoughtfully to create visual interest and seasonal variety.
Regular maintenance, such as trimming and dividing, helps keep the ground covers healthy and attractive. Mulching around plants can conserve moisture and suppress weeds, supporting the overall health of your garden.
Conclusion
Pairing creeping phlox with other ground covers enhances garden beauty and creates a dynamic, colorful landscape. Whether you prefer succulents like sedum, fragrant thyme, or lush moss, selecting the right companions can turn your garden into a vibrant, year-round display. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect match for your space and style.