Page 7 - North Haven Magazine Issue 28 Spring 2023

Perennial with young growth around an empty center.
Photo - Sally Brockett

cloudy, cool day for this work to minimize sun damage.
Plants to Divide in Spring: This is a great time to divide
perennials because the plants are just beginning to grow so it is
easy to see the new growth and to locate a good place to divide
between the small leaves. When the plant is larger, with bigger
leaves and roots, more damage may occur. The cooler weather
will also help the plants recuperate more quickly.
The following plants are examples of those to divide in the spring:
Asters, Black-eyed Susan, Chrysanthemums, Cone Flower, Dai-
sy, Phlox, Hardy Geranium, Hosta, Sedum.
Plants to Divide in Fall: Some plants will do better when
divided in the fall but be sure to allow enough time before frost
for the roots to grow and become established.

The following plants can be divided in the fall: Peonies, Daylil-
ies, Oriental Poppies, Siberian Iris, Phlox, Bleeding Heart, Ve-
ronica, Astilbe, Bearded Iris, Lily of the Valley

Better not to Divide: Other plants, such as the popular but-
terfly weed (asclepias tuberosa), have long tap roots which may
be damaged easily if transplanted or divided. It is better to leave
these plants alone. They often reseed readily so you will get more
young plants simply through natural seeding.

The following plants should not be divided: Butterfly weed, Col-
umbine, Delphinium, Foxglove, Helleborus (Christmas Rose) E
Lavender, Lupine.
There are some perennials that rarely need dividing, including
peonies and perennial sweet pea. Others may only need divi-
sion after 5-6 years. There are Internet resources that provide
guidance about division of specific plants, so it can be useful to
check the specific plants in which you are interested. A visit to
our local garden centers can also provide helpful information
from staff or contact a member of the Daytime Gardeners of
North Haven with your questions. Enjoy the growing seasons
and remember to check your perennials to see what you need to
divide and conquer!

NorthHavenMag.com 7