How to prune phlox paniculata 'starfire'

Deadhead after each bloom flush in summer; cut back fully in autumn or early spring. Snip spent flower heads back to a healthy set of leaves below them to prompt a second flush. Once the season ends, cut all stems to ground level. Thinning emerging stems in spring to 5–7 per clump improves airflow and reduces mildew.

Deadhead as blooms fade; cut to ground annually in autumn or spring. Phlox paniculata 'Starfire' benefits from cutting back spent flower heads to encourage a second smaller flush and prevent excessive self-seeding. Remove the top third of stems after blooming. In autumn or early spring, cut the whole plant to within a few centimetres of the ground. Good air circulation reduces powdery mildew risk.

Snip spent flower heads back to a healthy set of leaves below them to prompt a second flush. Once the season ends, cut all stems to ground level. Thinning emerging stems in spring to 5–7 per clump improves airflow and reduces mildew.