How to plant digitalises (foxgloves)

Commonly known as foxgloves, digitalises are wonderful perennial plants producing tall spires of tubular bells. Loved by bees and other pollinating insects, these favourites of the woodland/wildflower garden will equally be at home in the cottage garden where they will bring height to the back of the border.

How to plant Digitalis

• Choose a semi sahdy position
• The soil should be rich and well draining, it doesn't require fertiliser
• Plant to the surface of the soil
• They can be planted at any time but it is best in spring or autumn
• Seeds should be sown in spring
• The root ball can be divided in autumn to provide more plants
• Cut back the stem when finished flowering to encourage a larger plant for next year or leave to produce seeds

What can you grow with Digitalis?

Try mixing with

• nepetas
• delphiniums
• achilleas
• alchemillas
• anchusas
• geraniums
• heucheras 
• grasses

Digitalises like light, shady spots where they can be left to naturalise. They will grow in most soils but will not tolerate wet or very dry conditions.

Foxgloves are supplied in 9 cm pots. Always unpack on arrival and store in a cool place until ready to plant.

Take care!  Digitalises are poisonous and can be harmful to cats, dogs and horses. Keep away from paddocks.

Potential problems, pests and diseases:

Generally fairly disease resistant, digitalises can be affected by powdery mildews. Usually caused by planting in the shade or by poor air circulation, these fungal diseases can be seen in the form of white, powdery coating on the leaves. Cut off any infected material before disinfecting your scissors.