Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’

Description

Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ is a stunning perennial hybrid foxglove producing soft pink, cream-speckled tubular flowers from June to August. Reaching 60cm in height with a 45cm spread, this compact, long-flowering plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and attracts bees, making it ideal for borders, patio containers, and cottage gardens.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows roots to establish before flowering, ensuring healthy growth and abundant blooms.
• Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows your Digitalis to settle in before dormancy, encouraging strong growth for the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Digitalis thrives in full sun to partial shade. Select a site that receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily to promote vigorous flowering.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’. Avoid waterlogged conditions by improving drainage with compost or organic matter, which supports strong roots and prevents rot.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball of Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ to give roots room to expand.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting: Position Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting your Digitalis to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Digitalis prefers moderately moist soil. Water during dry spells, allowing the soil to slightly dry between sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, only supplementing if the soil becomes very dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support new growth and abundant flowering of Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer can extend the blooming period and maintain plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from your Digitalis to encourage continuous blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering ends, cut back to ground level to prepare for winter and promote stronger growth next season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply mulch around the base of your Digitalis to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulching protects roots from cold and frost, helping Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ survive through winter.

Supporting the Plant

• Staking is rarely necessary for Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ due to its compact growth, but in exposed or windy locations, provide gentle support to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Digitalis ‘Arctic Fox Rose’ is a low-maintenance, long-flowering perennial that adds charm and colour to any garden. Plant it in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil, feed and mulch appropriately, and enjoy a season of beautiful, bee-attracting blooms.

RHS Details

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