Dividing Ornamental Grasses: Best Timing and Aftercare for Success

When to Divide

Ideal: Early fall as growth slows and dormancy approaches.

Acceptable: Anytime, with extra care.

Procedure

1. Choose a cool, cloudy day or evening.
2. Dig up entire clump; divide with sharp spade or saw.
3. Ensure each division has roots and shoots.
4. Replant immediately at same depth.

Critical Aftercare

• Water deeply at planting.
• Side-dress with composted manure.
• Water 1–2 times weekly until established (no rain).
• Mulch to conserve moisture.

Warm-season grasses (miscanthus, panicum) divide best in spring; cool-season (calamagrostis, festuca) in fall.