I did but I guess I didn't prune it back short enough because it ended up growing back over the summer, now it looks terrible. Will any flowers bloom on the old stems?

I agree with dbarron. Do not cut back any green. You can remove the old dead bits. This is one that I put a glove on for and just gently ruffle up the foliage. the dead bits will break off. Mine always has some debris after winter and recovers really well.

mine just came out of a snow bank.. watch the answers of those warm zone peeps ... as to timing ...

regardless .. i NEVER prune mine back.. new green leaves.. cover the old uglies ...

i suppose you clean your house too???? ... lol ..

BTW.. i agree ... with rather early blooming things.. default to after flower ... unless you dont mind missing the show ....

ken

Mine are still under snow! This pic is from last year.

Only in winter Ken LOL!!!

I'm with you, Ken---I never clean mine either.....(house is optional, especially during nice weather!) Linda, give it just a little more time, and the green will overtake the uglies, and then the whole thing will be covered in blooms. You don't need to do anything.

Thank you all, I appreciate the help. Mine just came out of a snow bank too, it looks pretty scary right now but I can see tiny bits of green beginning to sprout. Guess I'll just let mother nature take it's course this year. It's been such a horrible winter, most of my shrubs and perennials have taken a huge beaten this year.

Is creeping phlox easy to rip out if it grows where it's not wanted? Thanks!

Yes catkin. The outer edges have shallow roots. The main root is much deeper but is easy to remove also, if necessary.

Thanks (although late) Peren!