common foxglove

Foxgloves grow best in moist, well-drained soil and prefer partial shade. As such, they should be watered regularly but lightly to prevent waterlogging. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not wet. Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and water plants thoroughly until water is coming out of the drainage holes. This should be about once a week in the growing season. In the winter, water the plant much less, as it is dormant. It can survive with only a light misting in its dormant period.

Common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea (Foxy Group)) plants thrive best when given direct sunlight for the majority of the day. This species of plant prefers 6 to 8 hours of sunlight every day. It can also tolerate partial shade during part of the day. For best growth, give the plant at least 4 or 5 hours of direct sunlight and then light shade the remaining hours. To achieve maximum blooms, full, direct sunlight should be given throughout the day.

Pruning for the common foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) should take place shortly after the plant has finished flowering, usually during late summer or early autumn. Generally, late summer pruning will still allow for good flowering the following year. Prune up to 1-third of the plant, removing stems close to the base and removing dead branches and stems. Doing so promotes good air circulation and improves the overall shape and health of the plant. Don't prune too heavily as foxglove may not flower as profusely the following year. In addition, you can deadhead (remove faded flowers) regularly throughout the growing season. This encourages the plant to produce more blooms and prevents it from self-seeding. To deadhead foxglove, simply remove the flower heads or dead or damaged stems.