An introduction to division- a form of asexual plant propagation

Division

In horticulture, the word ‘division’ means splitting a plant into two or more independent pieces. Each piece has a stem and roots and can grow into a new plant. It’s a common and relatively easy way to propagate many herbaceous perennials, like cannas, irises, and daylilies.

Division involves splitting up the part of the plant that grows at soil level or below ground level. Different kinds of division methods are used to divide the plant, depending on the kind of plant

and the sort of stem and root system it has.

Different plants have different shaped stem and root systems. For example, some plants may have crowns, rhizomes, tubers, or bulbs. How they are described and the differences between them can be confusing, for example, stem tubers and tuberous roots describe different parts. One way to remember which part is which, is by associating them to a plant you know. For example, a potato is a tuber; more precisely it’s a stem tuber.

Let's look at some of the advantages of propagating plants by division.

Advantages of division

Dividing plants has similar benefits as other forms of vegetative propagation.

Division:

is a common and a relatively easy way to propagate many herbaceous perennials

can be used to increase stock

keeps plants healthy and refresh them

produces plants that are identical to the parent plant

produces healthy, mature plants in a short amount of time

is a cost-effective method of propagation.

Dividing plants with crowns

With herbaceous perennials, the crown is that part of the plant at soil level, where the roots and stems join and where new shoots are produced. Perennial phlox, Michaelmas daisies, and harakeke (New Zealand flax) are examples of herbaceous perennials.

The crowns of many herbaceous plants can easily be divided into pieces, each making a new plant. Each piece should have both roots and growth buds. Long roots can be trimmed.

The best time to divide most plants is after they’ve finished flowering but before they resume growth, usually late winter or early spring, depending on the plant. Each piece should have both roots and growth buds. Long roots can be trimmed.