If you haven’t split your perennials for a few years, September is an ideal time to get that job done. Every 3-4 years large clumps of phlox, polemonium, pulmonaria, geranium and astrantia etc. will benefit from lifting.
First, tease out small sections with young root and two-three buds. Discard the woody centres- these no longer generate good growth.
Second, the soil is still very dry after our very hot long summer even though the welcome rain has now arrived. Before re-planting, improve the soil by adding compost or well rotted manure and give it a good soak.
Re-plant by placing your small plants in 3’s or 5’s. You will find that they quickly knit together and grow on before the winter, to form a healthier stronger clump next year.
Michaelmas daisies can be treated in the same way once flowering has ceased. The autumn months are also an ideal time to plant container grown shrubs and trees.
I think there is still lots to enjoy in your garden at the moment and hope that you will get out there and enjoy the changing season.
Comments