Foxglove (Digitalis) Planting & Guide

Where to Plant

Foxgloves will happily grow in the ground or containers when given a spot with good light and rich, well-draining soil. They're not particularly fussy about light, thriving in anything from full sun to partial sun to partial shade. However, these plants appreciate more shade in warmer climates and vice versa.

When to Plant

You can add Foxgloves to your landscape any time in the spring or fall when the ground isn't waterlogged or frozen. Find a time when the soil is warm and moist before planting, and you can expect spectacular flower spikes to emerge around early summer.

How to Plant

• For outdoor landscape planting, find a location where the soil drains well, and your plants will receive good light. Dig holes twice the diameter of the container the plant arrives in and place your Foxglove in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Gently fill in and firm the soil surrounding the plants.
• For container planting, start with good quality, well-draining soil and a pot with adequate drainage holes that will accommodate the mature size of your plant. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the container the plant arrives in and place your Foxglove in the hole with the top of the root ball level with the soil surface. Place your container in an area where it will receive good light and protection from harsh winds.
• Water thoroughly after planting, soaking the soil to settle it around the roots.

How to Grow

• Keep the soil evenly moist during active growth without ever allowing it to become soggy.
• Add a thin layer of compost around the plants every spring to encourage a healthy growing season.
• Cut the spent flower stalks down to the crown in the fall after blooming has finished.
• Cover the plants in a thick blanket of mulch to protect them over the winter.

Foxglove Tips & Tricks

• Space your Foxgloves out between 12 and 24", depending on the specific variety you’re planting.
• Bear in mind that these plants are toxic, and while this is great for keeping deer at bay, it should be considered if you have pets or children around.
• Feel free to cut the stalks when in bloom for sensational arrangements.
• Support taller varieties by tying to a stake, especially if you're growing in an area with harsh winds.
• Cut back the center stalk after flowering has finished to promote more blossoms later in the season, or leave them in place if you want it to reseed.