08/23/2026
I love perennials because they come back year after year! But even perennials need a little attention. Dividing them keeps plants under control, encourages more blooms, and gives you extra plants for new beds. Most perennials should be divided every 3 to 5 years.
Peonies
Peonies don’t like to be disturbed and may not bloom the following year, but sometimes division is necessary. Make sure each division has 3 to 5 healthy eyes (buds) and replant them with the eyes no more than 1 inch below the soil surface.
Daylilies
Daylilies are best divided after they finish blooming. Dig up the clump, gently separate the fleshy roots, and replant divisions with three or more shoots for quicker blooms next summer.
Beebalm
Bee balm can spread like wildfire once established! Divide it at least every 3 years to keep it under control and help maintain healthier plants. Large clumps are also more prone to powdery mildew, so dividing can help improve air circulation.
Black-Eyed Susans
Every fall, I dig up clump after clump of Black-Eyed Susans to share with friends. But every gift comes with a warning: these beauties spread freely.
Coneflowers
Like Black-Eyed Susans, coneflowers spread easily and can eventually become woody in the center, leading to fewer blooms. Divide them after flowering, cutting the root ball in half and keeping at least 3 inches of healthy roots on each division.
Yarrow
Yarrow will let you know when it’s time to divide! When the center of the clump dies out and new growth starts sprawling across the ground, it’s time. Dig up the clump, divide the roots, discard the woody center, and replant the healthy sections.
There are many more perennials that can be divided this time of year. these are just some of the most common ones. If you have a favorite perennial dividing tip or some experience to share, please leave a comment below.
Mark
Minnesota Gardens
