Henderson County will likely see its first fall frost this week. That means that plants in the landscape are going to be going into their dormancy. Annuals will be killed back for the year and trees and shrubs will finish dropping their leaves. As a gardener we may be asking ourselves what we can do this time of year? One good thing to check off your list is dividing and moving perennials.
This process can be done anytime in fall and early winter, or in early spring. Moving plants in the fall however, gives them more time to settle into their new location before active growth begins. Herbaceous (non-woody) perennials are easily divided during this time. Giving you more plants to add to your garden or give to a friend. The process is quick and easy and only requires a few simple tools.
Tools
- Shovel
- Pruners
- Knife/root saw
The first step in the process is to remove the plant from the ground. This is best done by going around the drip line of the plant with your shovel. Lifting the plant as you go around until it pops out of its location. Once the plant is removed it is time to divide. Making a division is very simple, just make sure each division has roots and part of the crown of the plant. The size of the division is up to you. As long as they have roots and part of the crown, they should root in. Keep in mind the more roots the better especially when dividing.
