Astilbe is a beautiful flowering plant that has been gracing gardens with its feathery plumes and vibrant colors for years. They thrive in partial shade, adding texture and interest to areas where other plants may struggle. As they grow, these perennials may need dividing to maintain their health and appearance. Here’s how to divide your astilbe in 11 simple steps.

1. Choose the right time: The best time to divide astilbes is in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant. This minimizes stress on the plant and allows it to recover quickly.

2. Prepare the area: Before you begin, clear away any debris or weeds from around the base of your astilbes.

3. Dig carefully around the plant: Using a sharp spade or garden fork, gently dig around the perimeter of the plant, about a foot away from its center, to loosen the soil and roots.

4. Remove the plant from the ground: Gently lift the entire clump of astilbe out of the ground with your garden fork or hands, taking care not to damage the roots.

5. Shake off excess soil: Gently shake the root ball to remove any loose soil, exposing the individual rhizomes.

6. Inspect for health: Examine the rhizomes (thick horizontal root structures), looking for any that are rotten or diseased. Discard any unhealthy-looking sections.

7. Estimate size: Estimate how many divisions you can make from the main plant by counting healthy rhizomes with at least three buds each (also known as eyes). Ideally, each division should have at least three rhizomes with buds.

8. Divide into sections: Using your hands or a sharp knife, carefully separate each division by cutting through connecting roots between rhizomes, leaving intact as much of the root system as possible.

9. Trim foliage: If the foliage is still present, trim back any dead or damaged leaves to promote new growth in the spring.

10. Replant divisions: Plant each division in a hole that’s slightly larger than its root ball and at the same depth it was originally growing. Space divisions about 12-24 inches apart, depending on the varietal.

11. Water and mulch: Give the newly planted divisions a good drink of water and apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around their base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these steps, you’ll successfully divide your astilbe plants, ensuring their ongoing health and beauty in your garden for years to come.