Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’

Description

Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ is a dwarf perennial foxglove producing large, soft yellow tubular flowers on sturdy stems from a basal rosette of mid-green leaves. Reaching 40cm in height and 35cm spread, it blooms from May to July and thrives in full sun to partial shade. Perfect for borders, containers, and attracting pollinators.

PLANTING AND AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Planting Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ in spring allows the roots to establish firmly before the flowering season, encouraging strong, healthy growth.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also suitable, giving the plant time to settle before dormancy and ensuring vigorous blooms the following season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a spot that receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flower production.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’. Avoid waterlogged areas, as excess moisture can cause root rot. Enrich soil with compost to improve fertility and drainage.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This provides room for roots to spread comfortably.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the planting hole to enhance soil structure and nutrient content.
3. Planting: Position Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the plant settle. Ensure the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ prefers evenly moist soil but tolerates short dry spells. Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between watering.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support strong growth and encourage vibrant flower spikes on Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding during mid-summer can help maintain flower production and plant vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove faded blooms from Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ to encourage continuous flowering and maintain a neat appearance.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering, cut the plant back to the base to prepare for dormancy and promote healthy regrowth the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a 5cm layer of mulch around the base of Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Winter: Mulch helps protect roots from frost and prevents heaving during cold conditions.

Supporting the Plant

Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ has sturdy stems, so staking is usually not required. In exposed or windy locations, consider light staking to prevent toppling.

Final Tips

Digitalis grandiflora ‘Carillon’ is a low-maintenance perennial that brings elegant yellow blooms to any garden. Plant it in full sun or partial shade with well-drained, fertile soil, follow this care guide, and enjoy its spectacular flowering from May to July. It is perfect for borders, containers, and attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

RHS Details

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