From Ground: Start with
watering the creeping phlox plant to moisten the soil. Using the spade, dig carefully around the plant, making sure the root ball stays intact. After you’ve made a circle around the plant, insert the spade under the root ball and gently lift the plant off the ground and move it into a bucket or wheelbarrow.
From Pot: First, water the plant in the pot. Then, tilt the pot sideways and tap it gently to loosen the creeping phlox plant. Hold the base of the plant and carefully slide it out with the soil and roots intact.
From Seedling Tray: Saturate the tray with water, and let it sit for a moment to soften the soil. Gently lift the creeping phlox seedlings out one at a time using a small trowel or your hands.