Dividing and Transplanting Perennials

Perennials grow and expand in various ways and at different speeds, but most will need to be divided every three to four years. In Autumn, the plants will come out of their summer dormancy and form new roots just in time to establish before the winter. This furnishes ideal conditions for division. There are three steps to successful perennial division that include preparing the new soil, trimming the plant, digging, and dividing.

Prepare the Soil
The new soil where the divided perennial will be planted should be rich in humus and free of weeds. The fertile soil will encourage rapid root growth and will allow for successful establishment prior to a freeze.

Trim the Plants
Trim the plants to about six inches above the ground.

Dig and Divide
Water the plant thoroughly. After the water has saturated the soil, dig the entire clump and shake off the excessive soil selecting only as many divisions as needed for a new planting. Finally, be sure to mulch to keep the soil warm longer to permit greater root development.

Today's photo shows a perennial rudbeckia, which is a good example of a flower that requires regular "dig and divide" action if it is to survive and thrive. Our community garden near the Fort Pitt Tunnel hosts these perrenials.

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