- Which propagation method has proven itself?
- How important are watering and fertilizing?
- How and when should you cut foxgloves?
- Pests and diseases: potential sources of danger?
- Is it necessary to overwinter the foxglove?
- tips and tricks
He's planted in no time. But what comes next? Does the thimble require a lot of care or does it get along well without help? Here you will find the answers to the most important care questions.
Which propagation method has proven itself?
Foxglove does not have to be propagated every year. This biennial plant likes to multiply on its own. If their seeds are given a chance to mature, they will germinate in the spring. Alternatively, sowing can be done in spring or summer. The seeds (light and cold germs) can be sown directly outdoors or grown in pots/bowls.
How important are watering and fertilizing?
The thimble attaches particular importance to regular watering if it is protected from downpours. A moisture-loving plant, it loves water in abundance. For this reason, it should be supplied with rainwater (does not like lime) several times a week. It tolerates short periods of drought. When it comes to fertilizer, it is content if it is supplied with a complete fertilizer in spring.
How and when should you cut foxgloves?
If you do not want the foxglove to multiply, you should cut off the faded stems. The cut is made with pruning shears down to the ground. As a rule, pruning can be carried out in autumn (the second year of life of the plant).
Pests and diseases: potential sources of danger?
Pests usually stay away from it due to its toxicity. But diseases can be dangerous for him. Such cases can be recognized by:
- brown leaves
- curled leaves
- closed flowers
- white spots
The most common diseases affecting foxgloves are powdery mildew, leaf spot and root rot. The main causes are a substrate that is too wet, a windless location, too little planting distance and too little nutrient content in the soil.
Is it necessary to overwinter the foxglove?
The foxglove, which is usually two years old, does not necessarily have to be overwintered. He is sufficiently frost hardy in this country. Frost protection, for example in the form of a cover of leaves or bark in the root area, is only recommended in rough locations.
tips and tricks
A light layer of bark mulch can be applied over the root area of the foxglove. This mulch layer mimics a protective forest floor and Foxgloves will need less frequent watering and fertilizing.