How to Divide Hostas

When to Divide Hostas

Best time: late summer (August or early September). But you can divide anytime from spring to fall.

Hint: If dividing in summer, keep well-watered for a few weeks to help through transplant shock. Allow 3-4 weeks for establishment before soil freezes if dividing in fall.

You'll know hostas need dividing when they get too crowded and the center of a clump dies out. Generally divide every 3-4 years for health. Slower varieties may need longer; faster ones may be divided every 2-3 years.

How to Divide Hostas

If hostas aren't too large, dig out the entire clump. Dig around in a circle, use shovel as lever to lift. Once out, you'll see many individual plants. Wash off soil to see crowns. Carefully break apart into divisions with at least three sets of shoots per crown.

If too large to lift, use shovel to cut clump into divisions. Dig out sections and replant.

Hint: Many gardeners find a garden fork or flat spade easiest for dividing hostas.

Replanting

Plant divisions at same depth as before. Water well.

Click here for more on growing hosta.