Dividing Perennials

There are numerous perennials that you are able to increase their numbers by producing them from simple divisions.

If we ventured forth attempting to give instructions for this procedure as it relates to all the possible candidates it would be necessary for us to produce an untold number of pages.

Therefore we will go into the detail of dividing perennials regarding three widely planted ground covers.

Number one on the list has to be and deserves to be the ever increasing in popularity - Hosta.

After having been in your landscape for at least three to five years your specimens should now be of sufficient size to enable you to make divisions.

You may want to restrict yourself to making divisions only during the dormant season but I perform this procedure on our three subjects whenever I can find the time.

The first step is to dig up the clump and using a garden hose, rinse the soil off of the plant as best you can.

If I find this to be difficult I usually resort to soaking the clump in a tub of water which always makes this step much easier.

Then the actual process of dividing the plant can now begin.

You will want to retain at least two eyes and all you need to do is slice through the clump saving as many roots as possible which will enable each new plant to thrive.

If your division has no roots then simply throw it away as it will not grow.

Take your time and plan each cut carefully.

Remember if properly done you will be able to cover additional bed space with new plantings and in the process save yourself a good deal of money.

Number two and three on our list are all varieties of Liriope and Daylilies.

We are grouping these two perennials together as the procedure for each is almost identical.

Follow the steps as listed above for Hosta down to the stage of having the soil removed from the crown and root system.

Now if good and clean you will find it very simple to gently cut out each new plant as they will almost fall apart in your hands.

Don’t be afraid to try as we feel certain that you will be successful.