From our perspective, the decision to divide is not taken lightly. We are perennial beings, with deep, complex taproots that store energy for our lifecycle. The optimal time for this significant change is in the early spring, just as our new growth begins to emerge from the crown. At this point, our energy reserves are high, directed towards new growth rather than flowering, which gives us the best chance to recover from the shock. Alternatively, you can undertake this task in the early autumn, after our flowering cycle is complete but while the soil is still warm, allowing our roots some time to establish before winter dormancy. Please, do not attempt this during our active blooming period or the heat of summer; the stress would be immense and potentially fatal.
Your approach to digging us up is critical. Our taproots are sensitive and do not appreciate excessive disturbance. Begin by generously watering the soil around our base the day before the operation. This hydrates our cells and makes the soil more manageable, reducing the risk of root tearing. Using a sharp spade, dig a wide circle around the main clump, staying a good 8-10 inches away from the center to avoid severing the crucial taproot. Gently lift the entire root ball from the ground. You may need to rock the spade underneath us to loosen our grip on the earth. A clean, deep lift is far preferable to a shallow, ragged one.
Now, inspect our crown—the central point where our stems meet the roots. You will likely see multiple distinct growth points or "eyes." Your goal is to gently tease or cut the root mass apart into sections, each with several healthy shoots and a substantial portion of the root system attached. This is best done with your hands, carefully pulling the matted roots apart. For tougher, mature clumps, you may need to use two garden forks inserted back-to-back into the crown to lever us apart, or a clean, sharp knife to make decisive cuts. Minimize damage; every torn root is an open wound that requires energy to heal.
Speed is now of the essence. Our exposed roots are vulnerable to drying out. Prepare the new planting holes beforehand, making them wide and deep enough to accommodate our root systems without bending or crowding. Amend the soil with some compost to give us a nutritious start. Place each division in its hole, ensuring the crown sits level with the surrounding soil surface—not too deep, not too shallow. Backfill the hole, firming the soil gently around our roots to eliminate air pockets. Then, provide us with a deep, thorough watering to settle the soil and rehydrate our tissues. This initial drink is vital for our recovery.
The weeks following transplantation are a period of convalescence. Our world has been turned upside down, and our root systems are temporarily compromised, struggling to uptake sufficient water. You must keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for the first several weeks. Providing some light shade during the hottest part of the day for the first week can significantly reduce transplant shock and prevent wilting. Please withhold fertilizer until you see signs of strong new growth, indicating that we have successfully reestablished ourselves. Your patience and care during this time will be rewarded with vigorous new plants ready to thrive and bloom for seasons to come.
