Easy Plant Division: Multiply Your Perennials

Division is garden math at its best—multiply your plants, share with friends, or rejuvenate overcrowded clumps. Generally divide every 3–5 years. Spring bloomers: divide in fall. Late summer/fall bloomers: divide in spring. Midsummer bloomers: divide early spring.

Stem Cuttings

1. Cut a stem section with several leaf nodes and healthy green growth.
2. Remove bottom leaves to expose at least two nodes. Dip in rooting hormone, shake off excess.
3. Place in moist perlite or vermiculite. Keep in bright light or under grow lights. Cover with a clear plastic bag to maintain humidity. After ~1 month, tug gently—resistance means roots have formed. Transplant to potting soil.

Dividing Rhizomes (e.g., Iris)

1. Dig up rhizomes, wash off soil to reveal new shoots.
2. Break or cut new rhizomes from the old clump. Each piece needs 1–2 fans (leaf clusters).
3. Trim foliage. For bearded iris, dip new rhizomes in fungicide powder, let dry, then replant.

Dividing by Fork (for Clump‑Forming Perennials)

1. Dig up the entire plant with roots.
2. Insert two garden forks back‑to‑back in the center and pry apart to separate root systems.
3. Replant the divisions and water well.

For small, fibrous‑rooted clumps like Campanula, simply dig up and gently pull roots apart.