Dividing Hostas Like A Pro

Every three to four years, divide hostas to keep your garden alive and well.

Fall division is a four-week window. September to October is the ideal time, specially in northern climates-the farther north you are, the earlier you divide. Make sure to allow at least three or four weeks for the hostas to become established before the soil freezes solid. A cooler, humid climate is best for dividing hostas.

If your hostas aren't to large, dig out the entire clump. Dig around the hosta clump in a circle, then use your shovel as a lever it lift the clump out of the ground. Once it's out of the ground, you should notice that the clump is made up of many individual plants. If there's still a lot of soil around the plant, wash it off so you can see the hosta crowns. Carefully break apart the clumps into divisions made up of at least three sets of shoots coming out of a crown.

If your hostas are to large, use your shovel to cut the clump into divisions. Carefully dig out the sections from the original hole. Replant them in a low light or shady area.

***Note Many gardeners find that it's easiest to divide hostas using a garden fork or flat spade.****