Table of Contents
Foxgloves are beautiful, tall flowering plants that add a splash of color to gardens from spring through summer. Proper care ensures healthy growth and abundant blooms. This month-by-month guide helps gardeners provide the best care for foxgloves throughout the year.
January
In January, focus on planning your garden layout. If you haven’t already, order foxglove seeds or young plants for spring planting. Avoid heavy pruning during winter, but clear away any debris to prevent disease.
February
February is ideal for starting foxglove seeds indoors if you want an early bloom. Use seed trays with moist, well-draining soil. Keep seedlings in a bright, warm spot and water regularly.
March
Begin hardening off young foxglove plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Prepare garden beds by loosening soil and adding compost. Plant seedlings outdoors toward the end of the month if the weather permits.
April
April marks the start of active growth. Water foxgloves regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Support taller varieties with stakes if needed.
May
By May, foxgloves should be establishing well. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and treat promptly. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
June
June is peak flowering season. Ensure consistent watering and deadhead regularly to prolong bloom time. Watch for fungal diseases in humid conditions and remove affected leaves.
July
Continue watering deeply, especially during hot spells. Fertilize lightly to support ongoing flowering. Consider dividing mature plants if they become crowded, ideally in early July.
August
August may bring the last flush of flowers. Reduce watering slightly as the weather cools. Remove any faded flower stalks to tidy the plant and prepare for fall growth.
September
In September, cut back spent flower stalks to encourage healthy growth. Protect young plants from early frosts by mulching or covering if necessary. Continue watering during dry spells.
October
October is a good time to divide and transplant foxgloves if they have become crowded. Prepare garden beds for the winter by adding compost. Reduce watering as plants enter dormancy.
November
November is a rest period for foxgloves. Clear fallen leaves and debris. Mulch around plants to protect roots from cold. Avoid heavy pruning now; wait until spring.
December
In December, focus on garden planning for the upcoming year. Order seeds or young plants. Keep an eye on weather forecasts to protect overwintering plants from severe cold if necessary.