Perennial Division

Dividing your Perennial Plants

Occasionally most perennial plants will need to be divided.  If your plants are falling over, or dying out in the center, they will recover nicely by dividing them.

Generally, most plants are divided every three to five years, or when they have become overcrowded or are declining.

Most plants are divided in early spring or fall; however, some plants can be divided ay any time, like daylilies. Basically, spring and summer-flowering plants are divided in fall while the others in spring, but this doesn’t always have to be the case.

There are also plants that do not respond well to having their roots disturbed, like peonies.  These plants are best divided while dormant to reduce the effects of shock.

How to Divide Plants

Dividing plants is easy. Simply dig up the entire clump and then carefully divide the crown and root ball into two or more section, depending on the size of the clump. Sometimes you can divide garden plants with your hands, as with many bulb species, while the use of a sharp knife or garden spade is oftentimes necessary to get the job done when dividing plants.

Once you have divided plants, shake off the excess soil and remove any dead growth. You might want to cut the plants back prior to replanting too. This helps reduce any shock received from the division process and transplanting. Then replant your plant divisions in a similar location or another pot.

Twin Oaks will perform this service for you if your plants are in need of division.  Please call us anytime to inquire about these services.