Question
Hi,

I am new to the gardening scene so I am not familiar with certain procedures.  I've good some summer phlox that look overgrown.  Can I cut them back?  Also how do I prepare them for winter?

Answer
Hi Kate,
Thanx for you question.  Now that it is autumn, by all means, cut back your phlox.  In fact, before the winter sets in and the plants have finished blooming and are starting to go dormant, cut them down to with a few inches of the ground.  It is always beneficial to a plant to have a clean and sanitary environment.  You can give them a mulch of pine needles or leaves if you have very cold winters.  I hope this helps.
Tom