How to prune phlox maculata 'alpha'

Deadhead after each flush in summer; cut to ground in autumn or early spring. Cut spent flower heads back to the first healthy pair of leaves or a visible side shoot. This often triggers a secondary round of flowers on lateral branches. In autumn or early spring, cut all stems to within a few centimetres of soil level.

Deadhead regularly during flowering; cut to ground annually. Phlox maculata 'Alpha' responds well to deadheading spent flower spikes to extend the blooming period and encourage branching side shoots to flower. Remove the top third of each stem after the main flush fades. Cut the whole plant to ground level in autumn or early spring. Thinning young stems improves air circulation.

Cut spent flower heads back to the first healthy pair of leaves or a visible side shoot. This often triggers a secondary round of flowers on lateral branches. In autumn or early spring, cut all stems to within a few centimetres of soil level.