Divide and replant after flowering

Divide and replant after flowering. Dividing is done for three main reasons - to control a plant's size, to rejuvinate it, and to propagate it. Some plants are very vigorous and can crowd out neighboring plants if left alone. While others begin to decline in vigour if not divided, and therefore benefit greatly division.

With the mass of roots exposed, identify a spot where an offshoot can be separated from the plant near the base, or where the plant can be split into two or more equal parts.

A variety of tools can be used to assist in dividing plants. Many people use a sharp knife, scissors or garden pruners. A special plant-dividing knife with a serrated blade is ideal for dividing most types of plants or use two forks to pry open. These tools are available from garden centers.

If using the blade, use the tip of the blade to carefully pry an offshoot-section loose at a natural dividing-point at the plant base. With the separation made at the base, carefully pull apart the sections. The divided sections can then be re-potted or replanted individually. Add potting soil around the roots and water the plant to get it started. Place the newly separated plants in a shaded area for a few days to allow it to recover from the shock of the separation procedure.