If you don't know her, you won't recognize her. The seeds of foxglove are inconspicuous and yet extremely important for the propagation of this poisonous plant. What gardeners should know about them
How do I sow foxglove seeds correctly?
Foxglove seeds are tiny, brownish, elongated and flattened seeds that self-sow and germinate best at temperatures between 15 and 18°C. The seeds need light to germinate and should be distributed superficially in suitable soil, such as in pots or bowls. Germination takes about 14 to 30 days.
The appearance of the seeds scanned
If you harvest the seeds from the seed pods yourself or buy a seed packet, you will see it with your own eyes. The seeds of foxglove are:
- tiny (smaller than 0.5 mm)
- brownish
- somewhat elongated
- flattened
- all different in appearance
Internal characteristics of seeds
What is not visible from the outside are the internal characteristics of these seeds. Therefore, it is good to find out about the characteristics of its seeds before sowing the foxglove.
The seeds usually ripen properly in spring after spending the winter on the ground. Their good germination ability becomes clear if you leave the foxglove to its own devices. New plants appear every year because the seeds like to sow themselves.
The seeds do not necessarily have to be exposed to a cold stimulus (stratify). They germinate best at temperatures between 15 and 18 °C. But be careful: they need light in order to germinate!
When and how are the seeds sown?
The seeds are best sown in a targeted manner at home in spring (alternatively in a cold frame with a cover) or in summer. Pots and bowls are suitable, among other things. As a surprise to unknowing gardeners, the seeds spread easily through self-sowing.
You should sow the seeds superficially (no deeper than 3 mm below the ground). A sand mixture is recommended to distribute the seeds evenly. Press the seeds and provide them and the soil with plenty of water.
If you sow the seeds in the bed in summer, make sure to water several times a day - as long as there is no rain. Otherwise the seeds will dry out quickly and not germinate. For watering, you should use a garden hose (€23.00 on Amazon) with a fine nozzle so that the seeds are not pushed too hard into the soil by the water jet. Sprinklers are also well suited.
Tips & Tricks
Keep patience. It can take between 14 and 30 days for the seeds to germinate.
