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Steps
1
Thoroughly water the perennials the day before you plan to divide them. This reduces plant stress and makes the digging process easier.
Tip: Perform this task on a cool, cloudy day just before rain to avoid transplant shock.
2
Use a shovel to loosen the soil around the plant's roots. Wedge the shovel beneath the plant and lever the root ball free from the soil, keeping the root ball as intact as possible.
3
Shake away loose dirt and rinse the roots to make them visible. Gently tease matted roots apart with fingers, use a gardening knife for tough clusters, or place two gardening forks back-to-back in the center of the root ball to pry larger plants like daylilies or hostas into clumps.
4
Verify that each division is viable. Ensure every new plant section has a healthy nest of roots (or several inches of rhizome) and at least three sturdy stems or shoots.
5
Clean up the divisions using pruners to clip away damaged roots, leaves, or dead stems. Pluck out any weeds entangled in the roots. For irises or daylilies, you may cut long leaves down by half for easier handling.
6
Replant the divisions in original locations or new beds at the same depth they were previously growing. If immediate replanting isn't possible, place them in pots with potting soil or lay them on tarps in a shady area.
7
Apply a layer of mulch over the soil and water the newly planted divisions deeply to help them acclimate.
Pro Tips
Divide perennials every 3 to 5 years to prevent overcrowding, reduce disease, and improve flowering.
General rule: Divide plants that bloom in late summer/fall during the spring, and plants that flower in spring/early summer during the fall.
Avoid dividing plants when they are in bloom or during hot weather.
Stop all division activities at least 4 weeks before the first fall frost.