Many perennials rarely need to be divided, unless they outgrow their space. (Hosta)

Certain perennials will benefit from being divided every 3 - 5 years, especially if the center dies out. (Daylilies, Astilbe)

Sometimes a perennial weed such as grass is in the plant so badly, it needs to be dug out and weeded.

Fall is a great time for renovation work, and bulbs can be planted at the same time.

do's

don'ts

practice sanitary methods

be afraid to try

keep records

divide most during heat of summer (except Iris, Poppies)

shade your transplants if necessary

water well the day before

leave divided perennials out of the ground to dry out

treat divisions as you would new plants

ensure soil is good quality and fertilized

divide grasses in the fall

use bonemeal under everything you plant

put weeds back with your plants

edit plants that are taking over

worry if plant seems to die back

Growing Perennials from Seed

Collect seed from your perennials on a dry day, store in paper bag is ideal

Perennials for shade tend to not set as many seeds (Columbine does)

Allowing your perennials to set seed weakens them, so if you are not going to collect seed, deadhead!

Many perennials that grow well from seed can be planted right away, either where you want them to grow, or in a nursery bed (like a row in the vegetable garden). They can then be dug out and replanted in the border the next year.

Cuttings and Layering

Growing plants from cuttings does require a fair bit of moisture, but certain plants can be grown that way. Layering is similar to cuttings; however the cut is not made until after the roots have formed.

Low alpine plants can be invigorated without dividing by adding good soil to the center of the plant, usually after they flower in spring.