Gardening Australia – September 2019

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GARDENINGAUSTRALIA SEPTEMBER 2019 45

Plantsgrow,andclumpingonescan
becomecongestedovertime.Here’s
howtodivideandconquer!

1. It’s time to divide this dwarf agapanthus,
   so out it comes and onto a bench, using
   a sharp spade and some muscle power.


2. Start to loosen the little plants, finding
   spots where you can cut through the roots
   with a serrated knife to create divisions.


3. Trim old and damaged roots off the
   divisions. Most clumping plants like this
   can handle a root prune before being

plantedorpottedup.Withplantssuchas

kangaroopawordaylily,it’salsohelpful

totrimbacksomeoftheleaves,toreduce

moisture loss while the division is growing.

With this agapanthus, it’s not necessary,

as the leaves are quite fleshy.

4. Plant out your divisions in the garden,
   or pot them up for later planting.


5. Sprinkle a little slow-release fertiliser on
   the divisions, then water. Protect in-ground
   plants with shadecloth, or place pots in a
   semi-shaded spot for a couple of weeks,
   before gradually increasing sun exposure.

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skill

HOW TO DIVIDE A CLUMP