Question
I have a group of phlox in my front garden.  It has grown exactly where I want it to; however, when you lift up parts of the plant, it is very brown and very dry.  I water all of my plants about every 2 days.  I live in Central Missouri where it is hot and humid.  What do I need to do?  I'm afraid if I cut some of the plant out it will die and not spread well.

Answer
Hi Melissa,
Thanx for your question.  Creeping or moss phlox spreads by underground runner so the mat of plant may appear brown and dry but the plant is still very much alive.  It has a tendency to go dormant in the heat of summer but it will be back in the spring and will be green and blooming until the next summer.  You can clean up the plant in the fall.  Just keep watering your garden at least once a week if you're not getting regular rain.  Ihope this helps.
Tom