I tried foxgloves from seed for the first time this spring. I started them in those little peat pellets under grow lights about the last part of Feb. (probably too early). They have done remarkably well and didn't seem fussy or have any problems. Foxgloves are one of my favorites, they are just so beautiful. As for dividing a mother plant, I've never needed to do that. But since very hot weather is almost here, I'm sure that the divided smaller ones would need to be watered very frequently till they recover from being moved. Good luck!
Vicki