Clivia plants, scientifically known as *Clivia miniata*, are perennial evergreen plants native to South Africa. They grow in clumps with thick, fleshy roots and strap-like leaves. As they mature, they produce offsets or "pups" around the base of the mother plant, which can lead to overcrowding. Division is necessary to maintain plant health, improve flowering, and propagate new plants. The best time to divide is in early spring or after flowering, when the plant is entering an active growth phase.
Before dividing, ensure the plant is healthy and well-watered a day prior to reduce transplant shock. Gather clean, sharp tools (e.g., a knife or pruning shears) and sterilize them to prevent disease transmission. Prepare new pots with well-draining soil mix (e.g., equal parts peat, perlite, and pine bark) and ensure they have drainage holes. Wear gloves, as Clivia sap can irritate skin.
Gently tap the pot to loosen the root ball, then tilt it sideways and slide the plant out. If roots are tightly bound, use a knife to carefully separate them from the pot edges. Avoid pulling the plant by its leaves, as this can damage the crown. Shake off excess soil to expose the root system and identify natural divisions between offsets.
Inspect the root mass for offsets with at least 3–4 leaves and their own roots. Use your hands or a sterilized tool to gently tease apart the offsets from the mother plant. If roots are entangled, make clean cuts to minimize damage. Ensure each division retains a portion of healthy roots to support growth. Discard any rotten or damaged sections.
Plant each division in a pot slightly larger than its root system, positioning it at the same depth as it was previously. Fill gaps with soil, pressing lightly to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil, but avoid waterlogging. Place pots in a shaded, warm location (18–24°C) for 2–3 weeks to reduce stress. Avoid fertilizing until new growth appears.
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, as Clivia roots are prone to rot. Gradually reintroduce the plants to brighter light over a few weeks. Monitor for signs of stress (e.g., wilting or yellowing leaves) and adjust care as needed. Resume regular fertilization with a balanced, diluted fertilizer once new growth is evident, typically after 4–6 weeks.
Clivia plants may take a year or more to bloom after division. To encourage flowering, provide bright, indirect light and a cool, dry rest period (10–13°C) in winter. Reduce watering during this dormancy phase, then resume regular care in spring. Healthy divisions will eventually produce vibrant orange or yellow flowers, depending on the cultivar.
