“What a nice view for a garden!”
Those were the words that my neighbor enthusiastically yelled to me today as she rode by on her bike. While the wind was biting and cold, I couldn’t keep myself from getting out there to do time sensitive work of dividing the first plants that are ready to divide. It’s not uncommon to hear nice feedback from those who pass by, as many do, especially as summer rolls around and people flood Lake Iroquois with recreational day users. Now, instead of admiring from afar, those captivated by the view or my work can join the Friends of the Garden Membership have the opportunity to share the abundance that bb lane produces.
What do you get from a membership? Well you get a new garden bestie who will let you pick bouquets of flowers, take as many divides as you can use and opportunities to forage so you can bring home just picked assortments of everything that’s in season.
So without further ado, let’s review the basics of dividing:
Spring has sprung, and with it comes the perfect conditions for giving your garden a boost by dividing perennials. The warm days interspersed with gentle rains create moist soil conditions ideal for this task. Early spring, when plants are about 4-6 inches tall, is the optimal time for the first batch of divides. Not only does dividing help manage crowding, but it also rejuvenates your plants, ensuring vigorous growth and blooming.
Why Divide?
Dividing perennials prevents overcrowding, promotes healthy growth, and increases the number of your plants. If you notice clumps of perennials starting to compete for space, it’s a sign they need some room to breathe. By dividing them, you encourage stronger, more resilient plants.
How to Divide:
1. Identify Crowded Clumps: Look for plants that are dense and crowded. These are your candidates for division.
2. Dig Carefully: Using a spade or a garden fork, gently dig around the clump you intend to divide, ensuring there’s a distinct ring of soil around it to minimize root damage.
3. Separate Sections: Gently pull apart sections of the plant. Each section should have a healthy amount of roots and shoots.
4. Replant Promptly: Replant your divisions as soon as possible. Choose a spot where they have room to spread. Water them well to help them settle in their new home.
My Recent Dividing Activities:
I’ve been busy in my own gardens, utilizing these perfect spring days to expand and rejuvenate my gardens at Lunaria Estate, which were all built from organic matter harvested from the properties. Last year, I was gifted 8 clumps of irises and took the opportunity to remove plants around my deck in preparation for upcoming deck renovations. From BB Lane Gardens, I took divisions of native plants like Helenium, Echinacea, Goldenrod, and Rudbeckia. Though not native, I also divided Foxglove, Tarragon, Wormwood, Arnica, Bee Balm, Oregano, and Hops. I took big clumps of clover to give to my chickens as a treat.
Special Offer for Friends of the Garden:
For those in the Friends of the Garden club, I’m excited to offer clumps of any plants mentioned above on a first-come, first-serve basis. Whether you’re looking to add real Vermont Natives (not the cultivars) Echinacea and Rudeckia or attract pollinators with Bee Balm, there’s likely something for every gardener to enrich their landscape. I also have rare root Rose Candelabra and Marsh Marigold available for those looking to introduce unique varieties into their gardens.
Spring is a time of renewal, not just for nature, but for our gardens too. By dividing your perennials, you not only enhance your garden’s health and aesthetics but also multiply your beloved plants. Happy gardening!
