Division
/dɪˈvɪʒən/
Definition
Division is a horticultural propagation technique in which a mature plant is split into two or more sections, each with its own roots, shoots, or growing points. It is used mainly for clumping perennials, bulbs, rhizomes, and similar plants that naturally form multiple crowns or offsets. Unlike stem cuttings or seed propagation, division separates an existing plant into already established pieces that can continue growing independently.
Use in Gardening
- Clonal propagation: division is a common way to multiply many perennials and houseplants while keeping the new plants genetically identical to the parent.
- Rejuvenating crowded plants: It can reduce crowding in clumping species, which may improve airflow, root space, and flowering or vigor in some mature plants.
- Best candidates: Plants with multiple crowns, offsets, rhizomes, or tuberous clumps are often suitable, including many hostas, daylilies, irises, and snake plants.
- Timing matters: Results are usually better when division is done during active recovery periods or dormancy, depending on the species, so roots can re-establish with less stress.
Related Terms
Propagation
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Vegetative reproduction
Vegetative reproduction refers to a form of asexual plant reproduction in which new plants grow from roots, stems…
Asexual reproduction
Asexual reproduction is a biological process in which a plant produces new individuals from one parent without…
Cuttings
Cuttings are pieces of a plant, such as stem, leaf, or root sections, removed from the parent plant and used to produce…
Layering
Layering is a vegetative propagation technique in which a stem forms roots while still attached to the parent plant…
Air layering
Air layering is a vegetative propagation technique in which roots are induced to form on a stem or branch while it…
Grafting
Grafting is a horticultural technique in which tissues from two plants are joined so they grow as one. The upper piece…
Rhizome
Rhizome refers to a horizontal underground stem that grows at or just below the soil surface. Unlike a root, it has…