how to prune creeping flocks creeping flocks flocks uber latha and flocks Stone if it is a low-growing perennial revered for its mat of colorful flowers in springtime growing only five to eight inches tall it does spread out to become 24 inches or more wide trimming the plant back no more than 50% keeps it looking tidy within its garden space it also improves plant vigor when pruning is undertaken after the flowering display things you will need handheld grass shears landscape grade scissors ensure the creeping flux has finished its floral display wait until a spring to schedule any trimming so that flower buds are not cut off shear the tips of the stems one to three inches all across them out of creeping phlox foliage keep the shears level while trimming so the plant remains a relatively smooth shape and texture as more trimming is done brush away the trimming the brie from atop of creeping flocks with a brushing or sweeping motion with your hand tips warnings if the creeping phlox plant has become too laggy or large the stems can be cut back to no more than half their length avoid trimming back into bare tan-colored stems due near the plant centre don't trim creeping phlox from late summer to the following spring you will end up cutting away the flower buds only trim after the spring flowering Wang's you