Digitalis purpurea Excelsior mixed

Digitalis purpurea 'Excelsior Mixed,' commonly known as Foxglove, is a beautiful biennial or short-lived perennial known for its tall spikes of tubular flowers. Here's a guide on how to grow Digitalis purpurea 'Excelsior Mixed':

**1. Sunlight:**
- Foxgloves prefer partial to full sunlight. Plant them in a location that receives filtered sunlight or light shade, especially in regions with hot summers.

**2. Soil:**
- Use well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Foxgloves thrive in moist, humus-rich soil. Amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve fertility.

**3. Planting Time:**
- Sow Foxglove seeds directly in the garden in late spring or early summer. You can also start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost and transplant seedlings into the garden.

**4. Planting Depth:**
- Sow seeds on the soil surface and press them gently into the soil. Foxglove seeds require light for germination, so do not cover them.

**5. Spacing:**
- Space Foxglove plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow for good air circulation. The Excelsior Mixed variety produces tall flower spikes, so providing adequate space is important.

**6. Watering:**
- Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the foliage. Foxgloves generally appreciate regular watering.

**7. Mulching:**
- Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

**8. Fertilization:**
- Foxgloves don't require heavy fertilization. However, you can incorporate a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer into the soil before planting. Avoid excessive fertilization to prevent leggy growth.

**9. Support:**
- As the Foxglove plants grow, they may benefit from staking to support the tall flower spikes. Install stakes early to provide support as the plants develop.

**10. Deadheading:**
- Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plant from putting energy into seed production. Remove the entire flower spike once it has finished blooming.

**11. Pruning:**
- Prune back the entire plant to the base after flowering is complete. Foxgloves are often biennial, meaning they flower in the second year and then set seeds. Removing spent plants can encourage new growth.

**12. Pests and Diseases:**
- Keep an eye out for pests like aphids and caterpillars. Treat any infestations promptly. Foxgloves can be susceptible to rust, so ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.

**13. Companion Planting:**
- Foxglove 'Excelsior Mixed' adds height and elegance to cottage gardens and mixed perennial borders. Consider planting them alongside other perennials with complementary colors and forms.

By following these guidelines, you can grow Digitalis purpurea 'Excelsior Mixed' and enjoy its impressive spikes of tubular flowers in various colors. Adjustments may be needed based on your local climate and soil conditions.