Clumping Perennials For the Garden

Written by Jungle Jim

As I drive around and visit gardens I notice a recurring problem with what to do with older perennials. The plants I most often see issues with are things like Fortnight Lily, Agapanthus, Liriope, Zephranthus, Day Lily and Society Garlic.

When regular shrubs get too big most everyone knows what to do. Too often this involves the hedge shears and pruning them into little boxes, trapezoids or balls, which I have written about previously (see our blog and handout on Preventing Hortitorture!). Unfortunately, many people are at a loss with perennials that get too big and die in the center as well. These plants simply need some rejuvenation.

Here are some tips:

One thing different about moving smaller perennials versus shrubby plants is that when moving shrubs you want to do it during the dormant season. When you divide perennials you do it during the warm weather. This keeps them from rotting out during cold or wet weather.

Generally, when they get too big or die out in the center, dig them out of the ground. Set on the ground and use a digging fork, spade or even an old steak knife to divide out the best 10 to 25 percent of the clump and replant.

Cut the foliage back by ⅔ and water them in well and keep MOIST (not wet) until you see new growth.

If you do this occasionally, every five years or so, you will enjoy them a lot more and for a lot longer.

Happy Gardening!

Jungle Jim