Save money in your garden and keep your plants healthy by dividing them regularly.

Dividing is perfect for filling in bare spots in your garden or for sharing with friends and neighbors.

However, not all types of perennials appreciate being divided.

dividing hosta plant with knife

Credit: Julie Maris Semarco

Here’s what it’s crucial that you know for success.

Dividing can be stressful on the plantsand they’ll recover better from the shock in cool, moist conditions.

you could even use a garden fork or spade to help separate the roots.

digging to divide and transplate daylily

Credit: Derek Fell

Then, lift the shovel and root ball.

attempt to keep the root system as intact as you could.

Step 3: Separate the Crowns and Replant

Pry or cut apart individual crowns.

dividing daylilies with spade

Credit: Derek Fell

Each clump needs to have leaves and roots so that grow.

Replant the separated clumps promptly so the roots don’t dry out.

When in doubt, this is the route you should take.

divided plants on tray table

Credit: Derek Fell

These varieties include:

Divide Every 2 to 3 Years

Some perennials need a little more attention.

Divide these every other or every third year to keep them performing at their best.

bleeding heart shade garden perennial

Credit: Peter Krumhardt

pink astilbe growing near stone wall

Credit: Tria Giovan

yellow herbaceous coreopsis tickseed

Credit: Rob Cardillo