Pruning & propagation
Divide a healthy clumping perennial
Confirm the plant forms a divisible clump; a single woody trunk or taproot is not a clump to split.
When to do it
At a suitable cool, moist period for the species, avoiding flowering stress and severe weather.
What you need
- Fork or trowel
- Clean knife for tough crowns
- Prepared soil or pots
How to do it
- Confirm the plant forms a divisible clump; a single woody trunk or taproot is not a clump to split.
- Water if needed and prepare the new planting places first.
- Lift from around and beneath the roots. Tease apart natural sections or cut a tough clump cleanly, ensuring each piece has roots and healthy growing points.
- Discard dead central material and reject diseased sections. Replant sound divisions promptly at their species’ correct depth.
- Water, label and protect from harsh exposure until rooted. Keep the soil suitably moist without burying the crown.
What success looks like
- Each division has both roots and shoots and resumes growth.
Watch out for
- Splitting a clump into tiny rootless fragments.
- Leaving divisions drying in sun.
Plant guides using this technique
Chives
Chives with practical five-zone Australian timing.
Lemon balm
Lemon balm with practical five-zone Australian timing.
Oregano
Oregano with practical five-zone Australian timing.
Mint
Mint with practical five-zone Australian timing.
Sorrel
Sorrel with practical five-zone Australian planting guidance.
Related help
Plant a nursery perennial or bare-root fruit plant
Check the species’ depth, mature space and support needs.
Decide whether your plant needs water
Look below the surface before reaching for the hose.
Sources and review
Checked 24 September 2026. Source-checked editorial guidance; not field-tested or independently reviewed by a horticulturist.