Stretch your garden dollars by taking advantage of the plants you already have.

Perennials are the plants that keep on giving. In addition to coming back year after year, many multiply right where they grow. Gardeners who divide their perennials are rewarded in multiple ways: they get more plants and save money—and autumn is the perfect time!

Why divide perennials

One key reason to divide perennials is to alleviate overcrowding. As perennials mature, they multiply. For example, the hosta may encroach on the bleeding heart, depriving it of water and light. Removing some of the hosta will ensure the bleeding heart has access to the resources it needs.

Dividing perennials is also in order when the original plant starts to diminish. You’ll know this is happening when the center starts to die out and growth is directed to new growth in a ring around the original plant. You may see this with Siberian iris. Dividing the plant will rejuvenate the plant and stimulate new growth.

Perennials that can be divided

There are numerous perennials that thrive when divided. Common ones are hosta, coneflowers, daylilies, coreopsis, black-eyed Susan, asters, iris, astilbe, phlox and yarrow—and there are lots more!

Plants with a taproot structure don’t do well when divided. Butterfly weed, false indigo and lupines are three such perennials with extensive roots that don’t like to be split and moved.

When to divide

A good to time to split apart perennials is after they are done blooming and about four to six weeks before the ground freezes. This gives them time to establish their roots before winter sets in.

Many plants can be divided two to three years after they’re established.

How to divide perennials

To divide perennials, dig up the plant and tease apart the root ball to separate the plant into parts. A garden fork or knife might be needed to separate the roots. Depending on how mature the plant is, you may be able to split the plant into two, three or more new clumps. Then replant the divisions where you desire more flowers. Water the transplants thoroughly and keep them hydrated until the ground freezes.

If you have more plants than you need, share the bounty. Other gardeners , especially first-time homeowners, are often thrilled to save money by getting free plants.

 

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