How to Divide Bergenia
Bergenia are perennials that every spring adorn the garden with bell-shaped flowers that grow atop purple or red stems. They have fleshy, underground root stems called rhizomes, which self-propagate over time. Therefore, you must dig up and divide bergenias approximately every three to four years to keep the garden tidy and prevent overcrowding (which causes bergenias to bloom and grow less). Divide bergenias in the fall after the foliage begins to wither.
Dig up the clump of bergenias. They are planted just below the soil’s surface and grow several inches deep. Use a garden fork or trowel and be careful not to cut through the roots.
- Bergenia are perennials that every spring adorn the garden with bell-shaped flowers that grow atop purple or red stems.
- Therefore, you must dig up and divide bergenias approximately every three to four years to keep the garden tidy and prevent overcrowding (which causes bergenias to bloom and grow less).
Shake the dirt off gently and wash the roots so you can see what you’re working with.
Examine the bergenia roots and begin to separate natural divisions with your hands.
Cut the natural divisions with a sharp utility knife. Each section should have a healthy, plump rhizome attached to a crown. Discard old and shriveled rhizomes.
Care For Bergenia Cordifolia In The Winter
Feed heartleaf bergenia with a shovelful of compost in early winter. Spread the compost evenly around the base of the plant. Set out baits and traps for snails and slugs in late winter. Heartleaf bergenia attracts these pests, and early preparation can help prevent leaf damage.
- Shake the dirt off gently and wash the roots so you can see what you’re working with.
- Feed heartleaf bergenia with a shovelful of compost in early winter.
Related Articles
References
- Washington State University: Big-Leaved Plants
- "Fine Gardening": Dividing Perennials
- Perennial Care Manual; Nancy J. Ondra
- Rodale's Encyclopedia of Perennials; Ellen Phillips
- Flower Gardener's Bible; Lewis Hill, et al.
- Sunset Western Garden Book; Sunset Editors
Writer Bio
Melissa Lewis is a former elementary classroom teacher and media specialist. She has also written for various online publications. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
