| On Saturday, October 4th, an intimate group of plant enthusiasts gathered to Bridge Gardens to learn from Garden Director, Rick Bogusch, several tips and tricks on dividing and re-planting perennials. This practice is a cost-effective and relatively easy way to maximize the benefits of your favorite perennials while shaping and enhancing the visual appearance of your garden. Rick’s recommended supplies include a tarp, a sharp shovel, and — depending on the perennial’s roots — a small hand saw. Before you dig in, pun intended, it is important to note that all plants are different in their species, variety, location, health, and so on. Be sure to keep this in mind and only look to divide heathy plants that have been in the ground for at least a few years. Fall is a good time of year to divide and replant, as it is not too hot, there is usually more precipitation, and your plant will have time to reestablish its root system. Do note, some plants don’t divide well in fall, like Japanese anemone and Siberian iris. Divide those in early spring, as new growth appears.
Rick demonstrated how to identify the base of the plant to begin dividing. He started to dig, working around the plant, using the shovel to penetrate the soil, while slightly lifting the root ball. It may take you several minutes before it comes loose from the soil. Once it’s ready, pull it up from the ground and place it on the tarp. Now, some plants will naturally fall apart and divide on their own (the tarp helps catch falling soil and new plants), while others will require some elbow grease and a trusty garden saw to separate. Either way, once the plant has been divided, replant in your desired location – keeping in mind the usual needs of that plant – and be sure to keep it well watered until the first frost arrives and hoses are turned off. Plants that can be successfully divided include ferns, coreopsis, black-eyed Susan, perennial sunflowers, and grasses to name a few. |
