How to Divide Perennial Plants

Perennials tend to grow in an ever-widening clump. After several seasons of growing, They begin to die out in the center which causes the plant to look more like a ring than a clump. To keep the plant blooming, here are some tips on how to divide the plants so that they will be healthier, live longer, and gain even more plants out of the division.

Preparing for Division

First thing to remember when prepping for the division of Perennials is that diving them helps keep them happy, but there is the risk of shocking their system. Give the plant a good water, preferably the day before you intend to divide, to help with your success. It will ensuring that the roots are well-saturated before disturbing them.

Determining a Location for New Plants

Prepare a hole for the new plants before you divide, as this will plant's time out of the ground and the stress on the root system. Also, remember to leave room for expansion.

Digging up the Plant to be Divided

In most cases, it is easiest to divide a perennial plant by first digging and lifting the entire plant. Using a shovel or flat-edged spade to dig up around the outer perimeter of the plant, make sure it is a few inches away from the foliage. Dig down at least 6 inches for most plants The bigger the plant the further you should dig since the plant is well-rooted. The idea is to dig up as much of the root ball as possible.Try to keep the soil intact around the root ball.

Begin the Dividing Split

The roots will not break cleanly, but the plant will recover. Sometimes a densely rooted plant will resist, and it will take two people to pull the forks apart and split the plant.

Keep pulling on the handles until the plant has completely split into two plants.

Dividing Plants without Digging up the Original

On the other side of the coin, some plants such as geraniums and Jacob's Ladder are simply quick spreaders. Their root systems are quite easy to dig and separate. In this case, you do not need to lift the entire plant out of the ground. Instead, chop a portion near the end with a shovel and lift it out of the soil. You will still want to pre-water your plant and take as much of the root ball and soil as possible, but you do not need to dig and disturb the whole plant to reduce its size

Maintaining Recently Divided Perennials

Once you have replanted the divisions, treat them like new seedlings. Divide on an overcast day, or at least not in during the hottest part of the day. Keep them well-watered until new growth appears.