One of the best-kept secrets to an easy, beautiful garden next spring is getting your hands dirty now, specifically by dividing your perennial plants. This isn’t just garden maintenance; it’s a brilliant strategy that pays off with healthier plants and a fuller garden—all for free.

Why October? It’s all about timing. Your spring and summer bloomers have finished their show for the year and are heading into dormancy. This means they can handle a little root disruption. Crucially, the soil is still holding onto the warmth of summer, while the air has cooled and the rain has returned. These perfect conditions let the divided sections put all their energy into growing new roots, establishing themselves easily without the stress of a summer heatwave.

Think of division as a reset button for your plants. Over a few years, many perennials become crowded and congested, with weaker growth and fewer flowers. Digging up the entire clump and splitting the root ball into smaller, healthy sections literally rejuvenates the plant, guaranteeing more vigorous growth and abundant blooms next season. It’s also the ultimate act of garden generosity: you’re instantly multiplying your favourite plants.

The process is surprisingly straightforward. Grab your fork and carefully lift the whole clump. For plants with thick, fibrous roots, you may need a sharp spade or knife to cut through the root mass. Make sure each new piece has a crown (where the leaves emerge) and a solid network of roots. Replant your new sections immediately, ensuring the soil is well-prepared with compost, and water them in deeply. Keep watering regularly until the first hard frost. This final push of autumn care ensures those new roots are strong enough to withstand winter, setting your garden up for a truly spectacular spring.