Foxgloves (Digitalis purpurea) are beautiful, biennial or perennial plants that produce tall spikes covered with tubular flowers, typically in shades of purple, pink, white, and yellow. These plants are known for their striking appearance, making them a popular choice for gardens. Growing and caring for foxgloves is relatively easy, provided you understand their specific needs. Here’s how to grow and care for foxgloves effectively.
Choosing the Right Location
Foxgloves thrive in locations with partial to full sun, though they can tolerate some shade, especially in hotter climates. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. They prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil but are relatively adaptable to different pH levels. If your soil is heavy clay, consider amending it with compost or organic material to improve drainage.
Planting Foxgloves
Foxgloves can be grown from seeds, young plants, or bare-root plants. They are commonly grown from seeds because they are easy to propagate and can self-seed, allowing them to come back year after year in some cases.
1. Planting Seeds
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When to Plant: Foxglove seeds are best sown in early spring or late summer. They can be started indoors about 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost date or sown directly outdoors in late spring once the soil has warmed.
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How to Plant: Foxglove seeds need light to germinate, so they should not be covered with soil. Simply scatter the seeds on the surface of the soil and gently press them in. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Germination can take anywhere from 10-21 days depending on temperature and moisture levels.
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Spacing: Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to ensure they have room to grow tall and spread.
2. Planting Young Plants or Bare Root
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If you are planting young foxglove plants or bare-root plants, dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Water the plant thoroughly after planting.
Watering
Foxgloves need regular moisture, especially when they are young and establishing roots. However, they do not like to sit in soggy soil, so ensure that the soil is well-drained. During dry spells, provide deep watering to encourage healthy root growth. Mulching around the base of the plants can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
Fertilizing Foxgloves
Foxgloves are not heavy feeders, but they do benefit from occasional fertilization. You can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins. If your soil is particularly poor, consider incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the planting hole. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and Deadheading
To keep foxgloves looking tidy and encourage more blooms, it’s important to prune and deadhead regularly.
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Deadheading: After the first round of blooms fades, cut off the flower spikes at the base of the plant to prevent them from going to seed. This will help encourage a second wave of blooms in the growing season.
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Pruning: Foxgloves do not require heavy pruning. Simply remove any damaged or diseased leaves as necessary. If the plant is getting too tall or spindly, you can trim back the top to encourage more branching and bushy growth.
Supporting Tall Plants
Foxgloves are tall plants that can become top-heavy as they bloom, especially in windy conditions. Staking or providing some sort of support, such as a plant cage or bamboo stakes, will prevent the flower spikes from breaking or falling over. You can tie the plant loosely to supports as it grows.
Managing Pests and Diseases
While foxgloves are generally hardy and not prone to many pests, there are a few issues to be aware of:
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Aphids: Aphids can occasionally infest foxgloves, particularly on the undersides of leaves. If you notice aphids, you can wash them off with a strong jet of water or treat the plant with insecticidal soap.
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Slugs and Snails: These pests can damage the soft leaves of young foxgloves. Use organic slug control methods, such as beer traps, diatomaceous earth, or copper barriers, to keep them in check.
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Fungal Diseases: Foxgloves are susceptible to fungal diseases, especially when grown in humid conditions with poor air circulation. To avoid this, space plants adequately and avoid overhead watering. If you see any signs of mold or mildew, remove infected parts immediately.
Winter Care
Foxgloves are hardy perennials in USDA hardiness zones 4-9, meaning they can tolerate some winter cold. However, in colder regions, it’s a good idea to provide winter protection. Apply a thick mulch layer around the base of the plant to protect the roots from freezing temperatures. In regions with particularly harsh winters, you can also cover the plant with a frost cloth for extra protection.
Propagation of Foxgloves
Foxgloves are easy to propagate from seeds or by dividing established plants.
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From Seed: Collect seeds from the plant after the flowers have gone to seed. Allow the seed pods to ripen on the plant, then harvest and store the seeds in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to sow them.
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Division: After a few years, foxgloves can become crowded and may benefit from division. Dig up the plant in early spring or fall, and carefully separate the root clumps. Replant the divisions into well-prepared soil.
Common Problems
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Rust: Rust is a fungal infection that causes yellow-orange pustules on the undersides of leaves. To prevent rust, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Remove affected leaves promptly.
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Root Rot: This disease is caused by soggy, poorly drained soil. Ensure that the plant’s roots are not sitting in water and that the soil is well-drained to prevent this issue.
Companion Plants for Foxgloves
Foxgloves pair beautifully with a variety of other plants in the garden. Consider planting them alongside:
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Hostas: The bold, lush foliage of hostas creates a lovely contrast with the delicate, upright spikes of foxgloves.
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Lavender: The purple blooms of lavender complement the colors of foxgloves and thrive in similar soil conditions.
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Coneflowers (Echinacea): The vibrant petals of coneflowers add additional color to the garden and bloom around the same time as foxgloves.
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Shasta Daisies: These perennial daisies add a touch of brightness to the garden and pair well with the vertical growth of foxgloves.
Conclusion
Growing and caring for foxgloves is a rewarding experience, as they add both elegance and a touch of drama to any garden. With their tall flower spikes and colorful blooms, foxgloves are a favorite for gardeners looking to attract pollinators or simply enjoy their beauty. By providing them with the right growing conditions, proper watering, occasional feeding, and a little maintenance, your foxgloves will thrive and brighten your garden season after season.