Revolutionize Your Garden: How to Grow Foxglove Beardtongue

Are you looking to add a touch of elegance and drama to your garden? Look no further than foxglove beardtongue (Penstemon digitalis), a captivating plant that boasts stunning, foxglove-like blooms and a long flowering season. This blog post will guide you through the process of how to grow foxglove beardtongue, from choosing the right location and soil to caring for your plants throughout the year.

Understanding Foxglove Beardtongue

Foxglove beardtongue is a perennial plant that belongs to the Penstemon genus. It’s native to North America and thrives in a wide range of climates. This versatile plant is known for its tall, slender stalks that reach heights of 2-3 feet, adorned with trumpet-shaped flowers in a vibrant array of colors, including pink, purple, red, white, and bi-color varieties.

Choosing the Right Location and Soil

Foxglove beardtongue prefers a sunny to partially shaded location with well-drained soil. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal conditions:

• Sunlight: Aim for a spot that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. While it can tolerate some shade, too much shade can reduce flowering.
• Soil: Foxglove beardtongue thrives in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). The soil should be rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.

Planting Foxglove Beardtongue

The best time to plant foxglove beardtongue is in the spring or fall, after the last frost. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Prepare the planting area: Remove any weeds and loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches.
2. Spacing: Space the plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for adequate air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
3. Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots.

Watering and Fertilizing

Foxglove beardtongue is relatively drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. Here’s a guide to keeping your plants hydrated:

• Watering frequency: Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
• Fertilizing: Foxglove beardtongue is a light feeder. Fertilize with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Deadheading and Pruning

Deadheading, the process of removing spent blooms, encourages continued flowering and prevents the plant from producing seeds.

• Deadheading: Pinch off the spent flower stalks just below the last flower. This will encourage the plant to produce new blooms.
• Pruning: In late fall or early spring, cut back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground to promote new growth.

Winter Care

Foxglove beardtongue is generally hardy in USDA zones 4-8. However, in colder climates, it’s essential to protect the plants during winter. Here’s how to ensure their survival:

• Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch (such as shredded bark or leaves) around the base of the plants to insulate the roots and protect them from frost.
• Winter protection: In extremely cold climates, consider covering the plants with burlap or frost blankets to provide added protection.

Propagating Foxglove Beardtongue

Propagating foxglove beardtongue is relatively easy and can be done through seed or division.

• Seed propagation: Sow seeds indoors in early spring or directly outdoors in the fall.
• Division: Divide established plants in the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the root ball into smaller divisions. Replant the divisions in a new location.

Enjoying the Beauty of Foxglove Beardtongue

Foxglove beardtongue is a stunning addition to any garden. Its tall, slender stalks adorned with vibrant blooms create a dramatic and elegant display. Here are some tips for incorporating this plant into your landscape:

• Border plantings: Foxglove beardtongue makes a beautiful addition to flower borders, providing vertical interest and a long-lasting display of color.
• Mixed containers: Plant it in containers with other flowering plants for a vibrant and eye-catching display.
• Wildlife gardens: Foxglove beardtongue attracts hummingbirds and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.

Beyond the Garden

Foxglove beardtongue is not only a beautiful garden plant but also has a long history of medicinal use. Native Americans used the plant to treat a variety of ailments, including skin infections, respiratory problems, and headaches.

The Final Bloom: A Reflection on Growth and Resilience

Foxglove beardtongue is a testament to the resilience and beauty of nature. From its humble beginnings as a seed to its majestic display of vibrant blooms, this plant embodies the cycle of growth and renewal. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the vibrant beauty of foxglove beardtongue in your garden for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take for foxglove beardtongue to bloom?

A: Foxglove beardtongue typically blooms in its second year after planting. However, some varieties may bloom in their first year if they are started from seed indoors.

Q: Is foxglove beardtongue deer resistant?

A: Foxglove beardtongue is generally deer resistant, but it’s always a good idea to plant it in a location where deer are less likely to browse.

Q: Can I grow foxglove beardtongue in a pot?

A: Yes, foxglove beardtongue can be grown in pots. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep to allow for adequate root growth.

Q: What are some good companion plants for foxglove beardtongue?

A: Good companion plants for foxglove beardtongue include yarrow, salvia, and coneflowers. These plants offer complementary colors and textures and attract beneficial insects to the garden.

Q: Is foxglove beardtongue poisonous?

A: Foxglove beardtongue is not as poisonous as its namesake, foxglove. However, it’s still best to keep it away from children and pets.