Multiply your blooms by dividing your perennials at just the right moment.
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Perennial plantsbring lasting beauty to your garden, with blooms that return year after year.
If you have perennialsin your garden, dividing them can lead to incredible growth.
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Because the practice allows plants to grow deeper roots and absorb more nutrients from the soil.
Ultimately though, Sons say it is highly dependent on the species.
“Perennials such asdayliliesand hostas flourish when divided early in spring,” she says.
“Irises achieve better results with division in late summer.”
In general, its best to divide your perennial plants when they arenotin bloom.
If your plants are overcrowded, dividing them will give them more space.
Shake off any extra soil and take off any dead parts.
For smaller plants, use a knife and trim extra long roots.
Then, immediately replant the perennial and water it well.
Use Sharp Tools
Use a sharp tool to divide your perennials.
Newly divided sections should remain shaded and moist for several days to minimize transplant shock, Sons says.
This will give your plants the best chance at rebounding from the stress of replanting.
Never divide when a plant is stressed, Janney says.
Its always a good idea to keep the plant well-watered a few days before.
Monitor the plants carefully.
You just disrupted the root system of an established plant.
Give extra water slowly around the base.
If you see the plant in stress (such as drooping), give it some extra water.
Avoid Transplanting a Blooming Plant
Blooming perennialsneed more resources to nourish their blooms.
Only divide perennials that are not in bloom as they have the most resilience.
