How To Divide Perennials

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How to Divide Perennials

Perennials are a great way to add color and texture to your garden. But if you want to keep them looking their best, it’s important to divide them every few years. Dividing perennials can be a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple once you know the basics. Here’s how to divide perennials in your garden.

Why Divide Perennials?

Perennials grow and spread over time, and if you don’t divide them, they can become overcrowded and unhealthy. Dividing perennials helps to keep them looking their best and ensures that they will continue to thrive and bloom year after year. It also gives you the opportunity to share your plants with friends and family or to start a new perennial bed in your garden.

When to Divide Perennials

The best time to divide perennials is in the early spring, before they start to grow. This ensures that the plants have enough time to establish themselves before the heat of summer arrives. However, if you find that your perennials are overcrowded and need dividing, you can do it any time of the year.

How to Divide Perennials

Once you’ve decided to divide your perennials, it’s important to do it correctly to ensure that your plants remain healthy. Here are the steps you need to take:

Step 1: Prepare the Soil

Before you start dividing your perennials, it’s important to prepare the soil. Dig up the area around the plant and loosen the soil with a shovel or spade. This will make it easier to pull the plant apart and will also help the new plants establish themselves in the soil.

Step 2: Dig Up the Plant

Once the soil is prepared, you can dig up the plant. Use a shovel or spade to carefully dig around the plant and lift it out of the ground. Make sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible.

Step 3: Separate the Plant

Once you’ve removed the plant from the ground, you can start to separate it into smaller pieces. Use your hands to gently pull the plant apart and separate the roots. If the roots are too tangled, you can use a knife or garden shears to cut them apart.

Step 4: Replant the Pieces

Once you’ve divided the plant, you can replant the pieces. Dig small holes in the prepared soil and place the pieces in the holes. Make sure to cover the roots with soil and water the plants well.

Step 5: Mulch the Plants

Once the plants are in the ground, it’s important to mulch them. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist and prevents weeds from growing. Use a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or straw, around the plants to help them establish themselves.

Tips for Dividing Perennials

Dividing perennials can be a tricky task, so here are a few tips to help you get it right:

  • Don’t divide plants that are too small or too large. If a plant is too small, it won’t have enough energy to establish itself. If it’s too large, it will be difficult to separate.
  • Make sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. This will help the plants to establish themselves in the soil.
  • Water the plants well after you’ve replanted them. This will help them to establish themselves and start growing.
  • Mulch the plants to help keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing.

Conclusion

Dividing perennials is a great way to keep your plants looking their best and ensure that they will continue to thrive year after year. It’s important to divide them correctly to ensure that the plants remain healthy and establish themselves in the soil. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can easily divide your perennials and keep them looking their best.

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