How to Grow Foxglove in New Mexico

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is a stunning biennial plant known for its tall spikes adorned with tubular flowers that can range in color from purple and pink to white and yellow. While its beauty can enhance any garden, growing foxglove in New Mexico presents unique challenges and opportunities due to the state’s arid climate and varying elevations. This guide will provide detailed insights on how to successfully cultivate foxglove in this region.

Understanding Foxglove

Before diving into cultivation techniques, it’s essential to understand the nature of foxglove. This plant is native to Europe and thrives in temperate climates, often found in woodlands and along roadsides. In contrast, New Mexico’s climate can vary widely between desert and mountainous regions, making it crucial to adapt your gardening techniques accordingly.

Characteristics of Foxglove

Growth Habit: Foxgloves are biennials, meaning they typically complete their life cycle in two years. In the first year, they grow foliage but do not flower; it’s only in the second year that those beautiful blooms appear.
Height: Depending on the variety, foxglove can grow anywhere from 1 to 6 feet tall.
Flowers: The flowers are a magnet for bees and other pollinators, making them an excellent choice for a pollinator-friendly garden.

Choosing the Right Variety

In New Mexico, selecting the appropriate foxglove variety is critical. Some varieties are better suited for the climate than others. Here are a few that thrive well:

Digitalis purpurea ‘Pam’s Choice’: A hardy variety with rich purple flowers that can tolerate dry conditions.
Digitalis grandiflora: Known as the yellow foxglove, this variety is more drought-resistant and can handle warmer temperatures.
Digitalis ferruginea: This species has attractive rusty-colored flowers and is also more tolerant of heat.

Site Selection

Foxgloves prefer partial shade but can adapt to full sun or even full shade under certain conditions. However, considering New Mexico’s intense sun exposure:

Ideal Conditions

Sunlight: Aim for a location that receives morning sun with afternoon shade to protect against the harshest rays.
Soil Type: Foxgloves thrive in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Sandy loam or loamy soil works best.
pH Levels: A slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 and 7.0) is ideal for growing foxglove.

Soil Preparation

Preparing your soil is crucial for successful foxglove growth. Here’s how to create optimal planting conditions:

Steps to Prepare Soil

Test Soil pH: Use a soil testing kit to check the pH levels and amend it if needed.
Add Organic Matter: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve fertility and drainage.
Tilling: Loosen the soil by tilling it to a depth of at least 12 inches to help with root development.

Planting Foxglove

Planting time for foxglove depends on whether you are starting from seeds or seedlings.

Starting from Seeds

Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before your last expected frost date (usually late February through March in New Mexico).
Sowing Seeds: Scatter seeds on the surface of moist seed starting mix and press lightly; do not cover as they require light for germination.
Transplanting: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves and are hardened off (acclimatized), transplant them outdoors about 12-18 inches apart.

Planting Seedlings

If you prefer instant gratification, purchasing seedlings from a nursery can be beneficial:

Ensure seedlings are healthy with robust roots.
Dig holes deep enough to accommodate root balls without crowding.
Water thoroughly after planting to help establish roots.

Watering Techniques

Foxgloves prefer consistently moist but not soggy conditions. New Mexico’s dry climate often demands careful attention to watering practices:

Watering Guidelines

Frequency: Water at least once a week during dry spells, ensuring moisture reaches 6-12 inches deep in the soil.
Mulching: Apply mulch around plants to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing Foxglove

Foxgloves benefit from a balanced fertilizer application:

Fertilization Tips

Type of Fertilizer: Use a slow-release balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) or one high in phosphorus to promote flowering.
Application Timing: Fertilize once in early spring as new growth begins and again mid-summer if necessary.

Pest and Disease Management

Though generally robust, foxgloves can be susceptible to pests like aphids or diseases such as root rot if overwatered.

Prevention Strategies

Aphid Control: Monitor plants regularly; spray water on pests or use insecticidal soap if infestations occur.
Root Rot Prevention: Ensure good drainage in the soil and avoid excessive watering.

Maintenance Practices

Maintaining your foxglove plants will ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms:

Pruning and Deadheading

Deadheading: Remove spent flowers promptly to encourage additional blooms and prevent self-seeding.
Cutting Back Foliage: After flowering, trim back any dead or yellowing leaves at the base of the plant.

Harvesting Seeds

If you wish to propagate your own foxgloves, collecting seeds is an easy process:

Allow flower spikes to fully mature before harvesting seeds.
Collect seeds when they turn brown and dry but before they burst open.

Storing Seeds

Store collected seeds in a cool, dark place until you’re ready for replanting next season.

Conclusion

Growing foxglove in New Mexico can be both rewarding and challenging due to its unique climate conditions. By carefully selecting varieties suited for the region, preparing your soil adequately, providing proper watering techniques, and managing pests effectively, you can enjoy these beautiful blooms in your garden. Whether using them as stunning focal points or as part of a pollinator-friendly habitat, foxgloves will undoubtedly add beauty and elegance to your outdoor space.

With proper care and attention, these enchanting plants will not only thrive but flourish under your dedicated stewardship in New Mexico’s diverse landscape!