Dividing perennial plants proves beneficial for several varieties. It promotes growth, delays maturity by a year, and multiplies your plants. Some perennials benefit from being divided in the fall.

Steps for dividing the plant:

  1. Carefully clear the root area of the plant.
  2. Insert the fork about 20 cm from the clump.
  3. Lift the root ball with a digging fork.
  4. Dig up the plant to preserve as many roots as possible.
  5. Divide the root ball with a knife or the sharp edge of the digging fork so that each piece contains roots and stems.
  6. Clear by hand as needed.
  7. Remove weeds, faded flowers, and dry or damaged stems.
  8. Replant as soon as possible, one piece at a time.
  9. Dig holes for the new divisions.
  10. Add compost and water generously after division to help the new plants establish.

Here are some perennials to divide in the fall:

Bearded Iris (Iris germanica):

  • Divide every three to four years, after flowering, at the beginning of autumn, to rejuvenate the plant and promote flowering the following year.
  • Replant rhizomes at the soil surface to prevent them from rotting.

Daylilies (Hemerocallis):

  • Divide every three to four years.
  • Fall is a good time as the plant enters a dormant period.
  • Wait until the flowering period is over.

Peonies (Paeonia):

  • Divide in the fall, in September or October, when temperatures start to drop.
  • Cut foliage to between 20 and 40 cm.
  • Preserve the eyes and cut as few roots as possible during division to encourage new growth.
  • Plant peony divisions at the correct depth.

Hostas:

  • Divide your plants to prevent overcrowding and promote growth.
  • Divide in the fall when temperatures are cooler to reduce the stress of summer heat.
  • Wait until the leaves begin to fade.

Perennial Phlox (Phlox paniculata):

  • Perennial phlox should be divided in the fall after flowering, ideally every four years.
  • Divide well-established clumps to promote abundant flowering the following year.

Astilbes:

  • Divide in the fall or spring, but fall is preferable as it allows divisions to establish before winter.

Echinaceas (Echinacea):

  • Divide echinaceas every three to four years to maintain their vitality.

Sedums (Sedum spp.):

Some sedum varieties, like 'Autumn Joy' sedum, can be divided in the fall.

  • Wait until the flowers fade and the stems begin to dry.
  • Replant directly in the ground.