Dividing plants - do you reduce the leaves?

honeybean · May 2021

I bought some hardy geraniums in 9cm pots which I received in the post, I’ve kept them indoors waiting for frosts to pass and they have grown really well.

I decided to divide them to increase my stock. I cut most of the leaves off like you would a cutting and now I am wondering if that was wrong? I know they are as tough as old boots, so should be fine, but just wondered what the correct method was?

I am planning on dividing a couple of Thalictrum too which are in 3L pots before planting out, so just want to make sure I get it right!

Thanks

KeenOnGreen · May 2021

I don't tend to cut the leaves off of plants that I am dividing, especially not something that is usually so easily divided as a hardy Geranium. Your plants should be fine, just keep sufficiently watered until they get established, and make sure they have good drainage.

If I am digging a plant out of the ground, to move elsewhere, or to divide, then it is more stressed and therefore I am more likely to cut some foliage back (usually about 1/3). Don't have Thalictrums, but another member may be able to advise you on those.

Borderline · May 2021

It all depends on the plant as some perennials are late starters whilst others make a lot of growth in spring time. In the case of hardy Geraniums, unless it is flopping about and tatty, there is no need to cut them down when dividing back. A quick snip off for over-floppy leaves will do. They are fast growing plants and will make up the growth very quickly once planted, so not a big issue if you have removed all leaves.

With Thalictrums, most tend to leaf up quite early in spring time, so be mindful about cutting out too many of the leaves. You may take out some potential flowering stems by accident.

honeybean · May 2021

Thank you for your advice Borderline and KeenOnGreen.

Dividing plants - do you reduce the leaves?

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