Filling a garden doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’ve done your homework, you’ve likely put in some perennials.
Watch: How to make an upcycled vertical garden
Perennials are a great choice because they will bloom in spring and summer, giving your garden a burst of colour. Then they will die down in winter only to do it all over again the next year.
How to divide perennials
When certain perennials aren’t performing as well as they used to, or plants on the edges of the clump are outperforming the ones in the centre, it may be time to divide them.
Dividing perennials periodically will ensure healthy, vigorous plants that continue to perform year after year. It also offers the opportunity to multiply your plants and fill your garden with even more colour!
Can you divide any plant?
There are two ways to multiply plants from ones you already have: dividing or splitting and propagating.
So can you split any plant? Unfortunately it’s not possible to split all plants. For example, although lavender is a perennial herb, it can’t be divided. The best way to propagate lavender is with cuttings.
For a plant to be suitable for dividing it must have a central crown where the plant stems join the root and clumping growth. Clumping growth is where the plant produces smaller crowns near the main one.
If your plant ticks these boxes, then you are ready to go.
How to divide perennial plants in three easy steps
Here’s how to split and replant your perennials without killing them.
Gather your supplies
• Overgrown perennial (here, Stachys byzantina)
• Shovel or garden fork
• Sharp knife (optional)
Step 1
Lift plants by loosening surrounding soil, taking care not to damage root ball. Shake off excess soil and remove dead leaves and stems.
Step 2
Gently tease root ball and pull away individual plantlets. If necessary, use a sharp knife to break up root ball or clump.
Step 3
Replant divisions along garden beds, in pots or desired location. Water well.
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