Every September, I get the itch to refresh my garden… and what better way to do that than by dividing perennials?
I absolutely love it! Not only does it make my garden look amazing, but it also gives me even more blooms for next season. Plus, it helps keep certain plants from taking over (looking at you, daylilies!).
But that’s not even the best part!
When dividing your plants, you get new clumps of flowers that can be used to grow an entire new plant (you can gift them or find new spots for them in your yard).
If you are planning on dividing your plants this September, don’t skip out on these:
1. Peonies
Peonies have seriously become one of my all-time favorite flowers. I mean, who can resist those huge, fluffy blooms?
If you’re lucky enough to already have some peonies in your garden, now’s the perfect time to show them some love through perennial division.
Sure, most people think of dividing peonies in the fall, but I’ve figured that September is great because it gives those roots time to toughen up before winter.
And you know what that means? More peony blooms next spring!
So, time to get dividing!
Related: Everything You Need To Know About The Peony Growth Stages
2. Stonecrops
Stonecrops are the best for gardeners that are busy or indolent (which is just a fancy word for lazy).
These low-maintenance beauties are ideal for dividing in September – splitting them up prevents those clumps from getting too dense, which means better airflow and more vibrant growth.
Stonecrops are tough and can thrive in poor soil, so why not take advantage of their ability to be divided and double the blooms?
Dividing perennials extends their growth horizontally instead of just vertically. This way, every plant gets enough space and nutrients to flourish.
3. Hostas
Lovely hostas should also be divided in the fall for similar reasons as the previous perennials – their roots need to toughen up before winter.
And September is the prime time for this task. By then, it’s easier to spot where the plant naturally wants to split, making the whole process a lot easier.
With these new clumps, you’ll have even more hostas to adorn your garden or patio.
Related: 2 Jobs You Should Do With Hostas Before Winter (And 1 To Avoid)
4. Shasta Daisies
Shasta daisies have become a must-have in gardens this year, especially for anyone seeking kid-friendly plants.
These charming flowers are not only a joy to grow, but are also made for perennial division (you can even get your kids or grandkids to help you out!).
By splitting them up, you ensure these blooms stay lush and lively for many years to come.
This might be helpful: When To Cut Back Shasta Daisies For Abundant Flowers
5. Daylilies
At the top of your perennial division list should be daylilies.
They are hardy plants that thrive with a bit of division every few years, and September is the perfect time to rejuvenate them, making sure that their blooms grow abundantly next season.
These stunning, heat-loving flowers are ideal for any garden. So, while they’re taking a well-deserved break this fall, you should get into some dividing action!
6. Phlox
We also have to cover one of the best sun-loving perennials: phlox.
Though they might look delicate, these cheerful blooms are tough cookies when it comes to sunny gardens, but they’ll need your undivided attention for dividing them this September.
Splitting garden phlox in the fall helps cut down on mildew issues and improves airflow around the plants. This simple step leads to healthier phlox and an explosion of beautiful blooms next season.
Related: Useful Tips To Help You Decide Whether You Should Cut Back Phlox In Fall Or Spring
7. Irises
Irises are a garden favorite for good reason. Their elegant, bearded blooms and calming colors make any garden more charming and delightful.
If you want your irises to bloom year after year, I would suggest giving them a little extra care this fall.
Dividing irises in September keeps them from getting overcrowded, which can lead to fewer blooms and a higher risk of disease. Bearded irises in particular thrive with a fall refresh.
And that’s all folks!
If you grow any of these perennials in your garden, don’t forget to prune them as soon as the leaves start turning brown and yellow. The ideal time would be September, so get to dividing right now!
Also read: This Is When You Should Plant Iris Bulbs For A Colorful Display Next Season