I planted a small creeping phlox years ago and grows to an abundant amount after 10 years, I keep dividing them, spreading to different location on my backyard, here in Michigan.
I’ll give this a try. I have creeping thyme but the clover always gets a head start. Thyme comes alive later than white clover in zone 6b. Creeping Phlox sounds like it may start even before the clover. The Bumble Bees absolutely adore the Clover so I’m relieved to hear they really love the phlox flowers too. I hope it gets thick enough for grass to stop peaking through.
Yes, creeping Phlox begins growing much earlier in the spring than both thyme and white clover so it may be a great choice for you. It is usually dense enough to keep most broadleaved weeds from growing in it but grassy weeds can sometimes be a problem. Thanks for watching.
You're welcome. Creeping phlox grows well in climate zones 3 to 9 so it would be happy growing in Georgia. It doesn't do well in shade though, so you'd want to use it on the sunnier parts of your slope. Thanks for watching!
Phlox subulata is a great candidate for a lawn substitute! I always recommend starting small with lawn alternatives so that you can get to know the plant and understand its growth habits and ultimately decide if its the right choice for you. And good for you you for wanting to get rid of your front lawn!
Also consider Carex pensylvanica and Carex woodii, both of which are native to the US east coast and have ranked very high in terms of lawn substitutes. They are sedges and look like grass, but only grow about 10" tall. In Japan, I have seen them use Phlox in huge masses, the different flower colors used to 'paint' the ground with incredible designs, so it would work on a grand scale. I think it might be a little 'too much', but it'd certainly look nice if it was broken up with some beds with other native plants like Blue Eyed Grass and Spring Beauties.
