Photo: Jensflorian, CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Herbaceous plant
Foxglove: when and how to prune
Digitalis purpurea
Foxglove is best pruned in August.
| Pruning months | August |
|---|---|
| Flowering | June–August |
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Foxglove: when to prune it?
After flowering, in August, once the seed has dropped.
What else to prune in those months? August
Foxglove: how to prune it?
- If you want it to self-seed, leave the stems until the capsules are brown and open, then cut them off.
- If you cut the main stem just after flowering, the plant sometimes produces smaller side spikes and may live another year.
- Pull up spent, dead plants roots and all and put them on the compost heap.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: August.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Caution: Wear gloves when cutting and pulling up plants and wash your hands afterwards: every part is poisonous.
Nearby: related pruning guides
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.