Care of Perennials

If you have clumps of Perennials in your garden that aren't performing as well as they used to then it maybe because the area has been over-congested. Lift the clump and separate it into smaller pieces. Start by cutting down the stems of the plants that have finished flowering - to ground level. Carefully lift the clump with a garden fork. You need to separate the clump into smaller pieces - either using two forks back to back or using an old knife for plants with fleshy roots. You need only keep the healthy, younger outer portions of the clump since the middle will contain the oldest parts and these can be disposed of. You are now ready to replant. If you're planting the same position dig in plenty of composted bark and add a little bonemeal to the soil. Replant so that the pieces are at the same depth as they were before lifting. Water thoroughly and be prepared to water in the following spring and summer during very dry weather. Mulching the soil with composted bark or compost will help retain moisture. St Bridget's sell composted bark in 70Litre bags for £4.99 or you can buy 5 bags for £30.