Dividing Perennials

Discussion in 'HortForum' started by HortLine, May 28, 2003.

  1. HortLine

    HortLine Active Member 10 Years

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    When splitting perennials what is the best way to go about separating them to give the best chance of a healthy 'rebirth'? I have heard that cutting them with a spade is not the best way. Is that true?
     
  2. HortLine

    HortLine Active Member 10 Years

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    It depends!

    Division and propagation is quite a complicated subject. It is a good idea to look up the method of division or propagation for each plant. ( Readers Digest A-Z is an excellent reference book giving great information.)

    Using a sharp spade or an old bread knife or pruning saw works well for some tough plants like michaelmas daisies or helenium. When it comes to hostas, two garden forks would work well, inserted back to back to pry the plantlets apart.
    Then there are tap rooted plants such as Geraniun cinereum 'Ballerina' which cannot be divided and must be propagated by root cuttings.

    Most division is done in early spring around here, before vigourous growth has started.
     

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