Foxglove Growing Guide

All you need to know to grow successfully!

Plant Family:
Plantaginaceae
Plant Type:
Perennial

Square Foot Spacing:

1
Typical Season:
Warm
Typical Zones Grown In:
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Growing Difficulty:
Moderate

Foxglove is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to western and southwestern Europe. It is known for its striking tall spikes of tubular flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, white, and yellow. The flowers are attractive to pollinators, especially bees and hummingbirds. Foxglove is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat various ailments. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested and should be handled with care. It is commonly grown in cottage gardens, borders, and woodland settings.

How to Grow Foxglove Organically

  1. Select a planting site: Foxglove prefers a partial shade to full sun location with well-drained soil. They can grow in most soil types, but prefer slightly acidic soil.
  2. Prepare the soil: Loosen the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches and remove any rocks or debris. Add compost or aged manure to the soil to improve soil fertility and drainage.
  3. Plant the seeds or seedlings: Foxglove can be grown from seeds or seedlings. If you are planting seeds, sow them in late summer to early fall, lightly cover with soil, and keep the soil consistently moist until they germinate. If you are planting seedlings, space them 18 to 24 inches apart.
  4. Water the plants: Foxglove prefers consistent moisture, so water the plants deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
  5. Fertilize the plants: Foxglove does not require much fertilizer, but you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once or twice a year.
  6. Deadhead the flowers: Deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Cut off the flowers as soon as they start to fade.
  7. Mulch the plants: Apply a layer of mulch around the plants to help conserve moisture and keep the soil cool.
  8. Watch for pests and diseases: Foxglove can be prone to aphids, slugs, and leaf spot diseases. Treat any problems as soon as they are noticed.

Foxglove is a beautiful and striking plant that adds vertical interest to any garden. It is also an important medicinal plant, containing digitalis, a powerful cardiac stimulant used to treat heart failure. With these steps, you can grow your own foxglove and enjoy its beauty and benefits. However, it’s important to note that all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested, so keep it away from children and pets.

Planting Guidelines

The following are general guides to follow. However, nothing is set in stone. Feel free to experiment!

How to Start:
Outdoor
When to Direct Sow:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
When to Start Indoors:
None
Sprouting Time:
3-9 days

Ideal Temperature (C):

10-26°C
Depth:
surface of moist, well-draining soil and lightly press them into the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact
Spacing (cm):
30 cm
Row Spacing (cm):
12-24 in
Sun Exposure:
Part Shade
Maturity Time:
Biennial
When To Harvest:
June, July, August, September
How to Harvest:
Harvest seed capsules when they are dry and brown

Health Benefits

Growing your own food is one of the best things you can do for your health. Let’s check out some of the health benefits!

Is It Edible?
No
Edible Parts:
N/A
Potential Health Benefits:
N/A

Tips to Growing Organically

Growing without the use of pesticides and herbicides is easier than you may think and it’s better for the environment!

Companion Plants:
Columbine
What Plants to Avoid:
Common Pests:
Aphids, Whiteflies, Spider Mites
Common Disease:
Downy Mildew, Root Rot
Bonus Grow Tips:
Plant in sunny location, harvest flowers when they are fully open

FREE 30 Days of Backyard Organic Gardening Coaching!

Sign up to receive one email per day covering companion planting, square foot gardening, crop rotations, and more organic growing techniques!

You Have Successfully Signed Up! Happy Growing!

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This