Dividing Herbs: Multiply Your Plants for Free

Step 1: Dig Up

Divide plants in early spring or late fall when they’re dormant. Clump‑formers like chives and spreaders like mint are ideal candidates. Dig up the whole plant or slice through the parent to take a section.

Ready for more edibles? Check out our vegetable gardening guide.

Step 2: Cut

Use a sharp knife or spade to halve the plant, then quarter, eighth, etc. Each division must have roots and shoots. Chives and lemongrass often pull apart easily. For runner‑producing herbs (mint, catnip), dig up the new plants and treat as transplants.

Step 3: Replant

Replant divisions immediately to prevent root drying. If delayed, keep roots moist and out of direct sun until planting.

Download our chart of easy herbs to start from seed (requires Adobe Acrobat).