Thompson & Morgan Foxglove Foxy - 1 Packet (1500 Seeds)

An annual foxglove that can be sown indoors late winter or early spring for flowers in the summer ...

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This guide is for gardeners seeking to add vibrant, easy-to-grow cottage garden blooms to their landscape, especially in exposed or windy locations. The 'Foxy' Foxglove offers a dwarf variety with charming pink and white flowers featuring mottled throats, providing summer color. A potential caveat is its biennial nature, meaning it flowers best in its second year if sown outdoors, though it can be coaxed into flowering the same season with early indoor sowing. Key features include its compact size, suitability for exposed sites, and attractive bicolour blooms.

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Model Part Number23921
BrandThompson & Morgan

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FAQs

What is the difference between growing 'Foxy' as an annual versus a biennial?

Growing as an annual involves sowing indoors early (late winter/early spring) for flowering in the same summer. Growing as a biennial involves sowing outdoors in late spring/early summer, with flowering typically occurring robustly in the following year.

Are 'Foxy' Foxgloves suitable for containers?

Yes, their dwarf habit makes them well-suited for container planting, provided the containers are adequately sized and have good drainage.

How tall do 'Foxy' Foxgloves grow?

They typically grow up to 65cm (25in) in height.

Can I sow foxglove seeds directly into the garden at any time?

For same-season flowering, indoor sowing is recommended. For next-season flowering, sow outdoors in late spring or early summer. Avoid sowing in the heat of mid-summer or when the ground is frozen.

Are foxgloves poisonous?

Yes, all parts of the foxglove plant are toxic if ingested. Keep away from children and pets who might chew on plant parts.

What kind of soil do foxgloves prefer?

They prefer good free-draining soil. Avoid heavy, waterlogged conditions.

How far apart should I plant 'Foxy' foxgloves?

Plant them approximately 30cm (12in) apart to allow for good air circulation and growth.

Troubleshooting

Seeds are not germinating.

Ensure seeds are not sown too deep (just covering), maintain the correct germination temperature (13-15°C), and keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Seedlings are leggy and weak.

Provide adequate light once germinated and ensure they are grown in cool conditions before hardening off and planting out.

Plants are not flowering.

Ensure plants have adequate sunlight and are planted in free-draining soil. If grown as a biennial, flowering is typically best in the second year.

Plants are damaged by pests or disease.

Monitor for common garden pests. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues. Note that foxglove plants are toxic.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Compact size makes it suitable for exposed locations and smaller gardens.
  • Attractive pink and white flowers with unique mottled throats.
  • Versatile growing options (annual or biennial) allow for flexible garden planning.
  • Easy to grow from seed.
  • Provides vibrant color and a cottage garden aesthetic.

Cons

  • May require starting indoors for same-season flowering, adding an extra step.
  • Best performance for repeat flowering or robust plants is often in the second year (biennial).
  • Images are for guidance only; actual results may vary based on growing conditions.
  • Requires specific temperature ranges for optimal germination.
  • All parts of the foxglove plant are toxic if ingested.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Sowing Indoors (for same-season flowering):

  1. Fill trays or pots with a good, free-draining seed compost.
  2. Sow seeds thinly, covering them lightly with compost.
  3. Water gently and maintain a temperature of 13-15°C (55-60°F).
  4. Germination usually occurs within 10-21 days.
  5. When seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots or boxes, keeping them cool.
  6. Harden off the plants before planting outdoors.

Sowing Outdoors (for next-season flowering):

  1. Prepare a well-draining seedbed in a sunny or semi-shaded location.
  2. Sow seeds in late spring or early summer, planting them about 1.5mm (1/8in) deep.
  3. Water gently and keep the soil moist.
  4. Transplant seedlings into their final positions when they are large enough to handle, spacing them 30cm (12in) apart.

Planting Out:

  • Choose a position in sun or semi shade.
  • Ensure the soil is free-draining.
  • Space plants approximately 30cm (12in) apart.
  • Mature plants reach up to 65cm (25in) in height and 40cm (16in) in spread.

Care:

  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging.
  • Remove spent flowers to encourage further blooms or allow plants to set seed if desired.
  • In colder climates, provide a layer of mulch in winter if grown as a biennial to protect the roots.