Digitalis ‘Lucas White’

Description

Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ is a compact, clump-forming perennial producing masses of white trumpet blooms from early summer to autumn. Reaching 60cm in height with a 45cm spread, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, attracts bees, and is hardy in a variety of garden settings.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: The ideal time to plant Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish firmly before the blooming season, resulting in a healthy and vigorous plant.
• Autumn: You can also plant in early autumn. This gives the plant time to settle before dormancy, promoting stronger growth in the following growing season.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Digitalis performs best in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flower production.
• Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for Digitalis ‘Lucas White’. It does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so improving drainage with compost or organic matter is essential for healthy roots and long-lasting blooms.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball for Digitalis ‘Lucas White’. This provides enough space for roots to spread.
2. Soil Preparation: Mix compost or well-rotted organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage, supporting strong growth and abundant flowering.
3. Planting: Place Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ into the hole with the top of the root ball level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil to remove air pockets.
4. Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Ensure water drains well to avoid waterlogging.

Watering Requirements

• Growing Season: Once established, Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ prefers moderate watering. Water during dry spells, allowing the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.
• Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry, as the plant requires minimal moisture during this period.

Feeding

• Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give your Digitalis a strong start, supporting vigorous growth and healthy blooms.
• Mid-Summer: A light feeding during mid-summer encourages continued flowering and helps maintain the plant’s vigour throughout the blooming season.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ to prolong blooming, keep the plant tidy, and encourage new flower production.
• Autumn Pruning: After flowering has finished, cut back to ground level. This prepares the plant for dormancy and encourages healthy growth the following season.

Mulching

• Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic materials like bark chips or compost.
• Winter: Mulching in winter protects the roots of your Digitalis from cold and prevents frost heaving, ensuring the plant survives until the next growing season.

Supporting the Plant

Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ has sturdy stems and a compact growth habit, so staking is rarely necessary. However, in windy locations, consider staking to prevent damage.

Final Tips

Digitalis ‘Lucas White’ is a low-maintenance perennial that adds elegance and colour to any garden. By planting it in full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil, and following this care guide, this Digitalis will reward you with abundant white trumpet blooms from early summer to autumn. Incorporate this stunning perennial into your garden for a season-long display of flowers that also attract bees.

RHS Details

See more Digitalis from Proctors