HOSTAS! When do you know if they need to be divided? When is best to divide them?

Answer 1

Hostas can go a long time without needing to be divided. If you are noticing that they seem crowded and are producing smaller and weaker leaves and fewer flowers, then it's probably becoming overcrowded. I mostly divide mine when I want new plants to transplant elsewhere. Fall is a good time to divide and replant. Do it during a cooler part of the day and make sure each section has some good healthy roots on it. Keep them well watered, and everything should have time to settle in and get established before winter comes.

Answer 2

Divide your hostas after the flowers have finished blooming, which will be coming up soon or at the beginning of next month. Do your dividing and transplanting before 10 am or after 4 pm to avoid sun shock. This is the same rule for watering. Good luck!

Answer 3

Hostas can be left for many years (5+) before they actually need to be divided. If they seem to be growing too big for their spot or if they don't flower as well are signs they need to be divided. They can be divided before this happens if you want to increase your stock and no harm will come to the plant. They are pretty tough plants. I once dug one up to move it and ended up with 4 small plants. I now have 4 big plants.

As for the time to divide, in the spring when the new shoots are starting to show is fine (as long as it's not too cold). It can also be done after the flowers fade but make sure you have at least 4-6 weeks before the first frost to allow the root system to develop properly.

Answer 4

I would divide in early Fall with enough time in the season for the roots to take hold in thier new home.

Answer 5

In the cooler fall months, after the possibility of blooms has passed. Be sure not to plant in direct sun - they like filtered sun to shade.