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Questions and Discussions

Subject: "dividing"

Conferences Perennials Topic #25
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Karen Wherritt -- USDA Zone 5

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Aug-23-02, 05:28 PM (EDT)

"dividing"

When can I start to divide some of my perennials to put in other gardens around the house? I know some are better done in spring.
Can I do some now and this fall?

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John Franklin -- USDA Zone 5
Member since Feb-2-02
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Aug-23-02, 11:41 PM (EDT)

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1. "RE: dividing"
In response to message #0

Now through early fall is suitable for plants that are not getting ready to bloom. The roots need enough time before freezing weather sets in to establish themselves. Choose a cool cloudy day to reduce water loss while the roots are exposed. Water all your new plantings thoroughly and keep the soil moist for the next few days. If the plant has heavy top growth trim back the stems and leaves by about half. This will help balance the plant so there will not be more top growth than the smaller root can support. It will also reduce the amount of water loss through transpiration.

Rhizomes (iris or bergenia are two examples) are sometimes prone to rotting and damage by root maggots. Before you dig, sterilize your tools in a solution of 1 part chlorine bleach to 10 parts water. Once you’ve dug up a rhizome dip it in the bleach solution also. Use a sharp knife to divide the rhizomes and shears to trim the foliage. Replant the divisions in shallow trench like holes that have soil mounded up in the center. Spread the feeder roots out evenly over the mound of soil. Fill in the trench.

John Franklin

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