Dividing Perennials: When, Why & How to Multiply Your Plants

Dividing perennials rejuvenates overgrown plants, boosts flowering, and creates free new plants for expanding gardens or sharing.

Why Divide?

1. Health & vigor: Overcrowded clumps bloom less.
2. Propagation: Create new plantings elsewhere or share/sell.

Which Perennials Divide?

Yes: Clump-formers with expanding root masses.
No: Single taproot plants (division kills them)—use root cuttings or seeds instead.

Optimal Timing

Spring/early summer bloomers → divide in fall. Fall/late summer bloomers → divide in spring.

Step-by-Step Division

1. Water thoroughly 1-2 days prior—eases digging.
2. Loosen soil around clump with spading fork.
3. Slice clump with trowel; divide into quarters.
4. Break sections by hand to 4×4-inch pieces.
5. Immediately plant in prepared beds amended with compost.
6. Water well; fertilize after establishment.

Dividing perennials is a fundamental skill that multiplies garden beauty for free.