Propagating Ornamental Grasses by Division: Simple and Effective

Division: The Easy Way to Multiply Grasses

Ornamental grasses are pricey at nurseries but divide effortlessly. Buy one pot per variety in early spring; divide before new growth emerges.

How to Divide

1. Dig up the clump.
2. Separate into pieces—any piece with roots will grow.
3. Small clumps: tear by hand. Large, dense clumps: use spade, axe, or even hammer and chisel.

Pro Tip from a Wholesale Grower

Don’t let divisions age more than 12 months before re-dividing. Young divisions tear apart by hand; old ones require heavy tools. Plant small divisions in spring, dig and divide the next spring—easy, repeatable.

Replanting

Pot divisions in 2-quart containers or plant directly. Water well. Most grasses establish quickly and provide years of texture and movement.

One purchase, a lifetime of grasses. Division is the gift that keeps giving.