Gardener Adam Kirtland has shared a simple and cost-free technique to double the number of plants in your garden this summer. The method involves dividing perennials, allowing gardeners to get two plants for the price of one without any extra expense.
The Technique: Dividing Perennials
In a TikTok video posted to his account View From the Potting Shed, Kirtland demonstrated how to split a plant using a sharp spade or trowel. He advised against buying small plants, recommending instead to purchase larger specimens with well-developed root systems. After removing the plant from its pot, he placed it on the ground and sliced it in half through the crown, pressing down with his foot. He explained, 'Using a sharp trowel or a spade, pop it in the centre, right over the crown, and give it one good push. What you've now got are two plants for the price of one.'
Results and Suitable Plants
Kirtland showed the divided plant thriving later, noting, 'Since I divided this hooker, it's gone on to be one big happy plant of its own.' He listed over 20 plants suitable for this method, including Hostas, Daylilies, Hardy geraniums, Asters, Echinacea, Sedums, Heucheras, Primroses, Bearded irises, Siberian irises, Crocosmia, Ornamental grasses, Bergenia, Pulmonaria, Alchemilla (Lady's Mantle), Ajuga, Lily of the valley, Japanese anemones, Penstemons, and Shasta daisies.
Reaction from Gardeners
TikTok users responded enthusiastically. One commented, 'Just got myself 3 hardy geraniums. Going to try this and plant 6.' Another expressed concern, saying, 'I just feel I'm going to kill everything when I try splitting.'
Impact on Gardeners
This tip offers a budget-friendly way to expand garden plantings, especially for perennials that can be divided every few years. It also supports pollinators like bees and butterflies by increasing floral diversity without additional cost.
