How & When Do I Divide a Bleeding Heart Plant

Most perennials will display a slow decline in vigor unless they are divided every few years. Plant division rejuvenates the foliage, promotes healthy root growth, and is an easy way to propagate favorite specimens. The bleeding heart is spring-blooming woodland perennial that features graceful, upright stems filled with dangling clusters of heart-shaped blossoms. While this beguiling wildflower rarely needs division, should the foliage begin to fade, simply dig up the fleshy roots and start anew.

When to Divide

• As a general rule of thumb, spring-blooming perennials such as the bleeding heart should be divided immediately after their flowers fade. However, in areas known for their sizzling summers, it is advantageous to divide bleeding hearts in the early fall. This gives the plant a chance to recover during the cool weather; exposure to heat places additional stress on fragile root hairs. Regardless of location, divide the plants at least four weeks before the anticipated arrival of the first frost to give the roots time to adjust; if possible, perform the procedure on a cloudy day when there is at least a 60 percent chance of rain.

Preparation

• Water the plants thoroughly the day before performing the division. This helps the plant survive the process by ensuring it has an adequate supply of water stored in its tissues and roots. Additionally, the water will soften the ground, easing the division process. Prepare new planting sites for the root divisions before unearthing the bleeding heart. Make each hole at least 12 inches deep and leave at least 6 inches of space between holes.

Procedure

• Dig the entire bleeding heart plant out of the soil, maintaining as much of the root structure as possible. Minimize the damage to the fleshy root system by using garden forks to divide the root structure into pieces. Hold the forks back to back and work their tines into the center of the root system, then pull the forks apart, separating the roots in the process. Cut severely tangled bundles apart with a sharp utility knife, creating clumps approximately 6 inches in diameter. Wrap each division in a damp paper towel to slow water loss and reduce transplant shock.

Planting

• Plant the new divisions immediately. Set each clump in a planting site and backfill the hole with excavated soil. Tamp the surface lightly to secure the plant’s position and remove any potential air pockets. Water the divisions daily for two weeks to encourage the development of new roots.