Before you begin, it is crucial to understand my core. I do not grow from a single root but from a thick, modified stem underground called a rhizome. Think of these rhizomes as my water and nutrient storage tanks, which allow me to withstand periods of drought. They are the heart of my being. When I become "mature" or "pot-bound," these rhizomes have multiplied and filled the container, leaving little room for new growth. This crowding is my signal that it is time to expand my territory, and your intervention through division is a welcome assistance, not an attack.
The best time for this operation is during my active growth period in the warm spring or summer months. Please gently remove me from my current pot. You may need to tap or squeeze the pot's sides to loosen the bond. Once I am free, carefully examine my root and rhizome mass. You will see multiple, potato-like rhizomes with roots growing from them and stems growing upwards. Your goal is to identify natural separations or divisions between these rhizome clusters. Each new viable plant must have at least one healthy rhizome and one or preferably several stems attached to it.
This is a delicate procedure. My rhizomes can often be teased apart gently with your fingers. If the network is too dense and intertwined, you may need to use a clean, sharp knife. Sterilize the blade with rubbing alcohol to prevent introducing pathogens into my fresh wounds. Make clean cuts to separate the rhizomes, ensuring each new section has its own root system. It is perfectly normal, and even expected, for some smaller roots to break during this process; I can regrow them easily. Be mindful and avoid causing unnecessary damage to the main storage rhizomes.
After division, it is wise to let my rhizome cuts air dry and callous over for a few hours before replanting. This creates a natural barrier against rot. Plant each new division into a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball, using a well-draining potting mix. A blend designed for cacti or succulents is ideal for me. Water me thoroughly once after potting to settle the soil around my roots, but then allow the top few inches of soil to dry out completely before watering again. I am particularly vulnerable to overwatering at this stage while I am focusing my energy on establishing my new root structures in fresh territory.
Place my newly potted divisions in a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun, which can stress me while I am recovering. You may not see any new above-ground growth for several weeks or even a few months. Do not be alarmed. During this time, my energy is directed inward, growing new roots to explore and secure my new pot. Resist the urge to overwater or fertilize me during this recovery period; let my internal water reserves and the fresh soil sustain me until I am firmly established.
