Division is a form of plant propagation in which new plants are not grown from seeds or bulbs but are rather separated from the parent plant. There are several types. Parts already naturally rooted, such as strawberry runners and blackberry suckers, may be severed from the original plant and immediately transplanted. Alternatively, there may be a simple separation of parts not already rooted, such as tulip bulblets and hen-and-chicken offsets, that take root readily after being removed from the parent, especially at the close of the growing season.
Key Takeaways:
- It involves digging up a single plant, breaking it into two or more pieces, and replanting them to multiply all by themselves — until you decide to divide again.
- Any perennials, grasses, bulbs, or suckering shrubs are good choices for dividing, as long as each division has a sturdy, rooted base that can grow independently.
- If you’re dividing a hardy plant, do so in fall so the roots have plenty of time to grow, giving the divisions a hearty head start.
“Generally speaking, the best seasons to divide are in spring or fall. If you’re dividing a hardy plant, do so in fall so the roots have plenty of time to grow, giving the divisions a hearty head start.”