From our point of view, the process you call "division" is a natural and vital method of renewal. We grow from a central structure known as a rhizome or a crown. This is not a true bulb, but a thickened stem that sits at the soil surface. Over one to three growing seasons, this crown becomes congested. We produce offshoots, or "pups," around our main base. These pups are our way of ensuring survival and colonizing new space. When we become too crowded, our central, older parts can begin to senesce (die back), and competition for water and nutrients between the many growing points becomes intense. This internal stress is why you might notice a decline in our flower production; we are simply too busy competing with ourselves to put energy into spectacular blooms.
Timing is critical for our successful division. The ideal moment is in early spring, just as we exit our winter dormancy and you see the first signs of new growth emerging from our crown. At this time, our sap is rising, and our metabolic energy is directed towards root and shoot development, making us exceptionally resilient to the trauma of being separated. Alternatively, you can perform this task in very early autumn, giving us ample time to establish a strong new root system before the winter cold induces dormancy. Dividing us in the peak of summer heat places extreme water stress on our systems, and dividing in winter when we are dormant can lead to rot, as our healing responses are too slow.
Please begin by gently lifting our entire root ball from the ground or pot. Carefully wash away the soil from our roots with a gentle spray of water. This allows you to see our crown structure clearly and minimizes root damage. With a clean, sharp knife—sterilized to prevent the introduction of pathogens—carefully cut the crown into sections. Each division must have its own set of healthy, white roots and at least one or two growing points (leaf fans or pups). Discard any old, woody, or rotten parts of the central crown; these sections will not regenerate vigorously. We appreciate a swift and confident cut; tearing or crushing our rhizomatous tissue causes significant damage and slows our recovery.
Once divided, we require immediate attention to prevent desiccation. Replant each new section promptly in fresh, well-draining potting mix. Position us so that the crown is sitting just at the soil surface; burying it too deeply will cause it to rot, while planting it too high exposes our delicate roots and crown to drying out. Water us thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around our roots and eliminate air pockets. Place us in a location with bright, indirect light for a week or two as we recover from the shock and begin initiating new root growth. Please resist the urge to fertilize us immediately; our damaged roots are highly susceptible to fertilizer burn. Wait until you see definite new growth, a sign our systems are active and can process nutrients.
