Why Split A Plant Into Two Pots?

Believe it or not, splitting a plant into two pots is a common practice in gardening. It offers several benefits such as extending the life of the plant, promoting healthy growth, and allowing the gardener to create more arrangements in their garden. Splitting a plant can also be useful when you notice that it has started to outgrow its current pot and needs more room to thrive. In this article, we will show you how to split a plant into two pots so that you can reap the benefits.

What You Will Need

To split a plant, you will need a few tools and materials:

A pair of sharp garden shears or scissors

Clean potting soil

Two pots with drainage holes at the bottom

A watering can or hose

Steps to Splitting A Plant Into Two Pots

Here are the steps you should follow to successfully split a plant into two pots:

Step 1: Choose The Right Time

The best time to split a plant is during its growing season, which is generally in the spring or summer when it is actively growing. Avoid splitting during dormancy as this could shock the plant and cause it to die.

Step 2: Select The Plant

Choose a plant that is healthy and has outgrown its current pot. It should have a well-established root system with its roots tightly filling its current pot.

Step 3:Lay Out Preparations

Prepare two clean pots with drainage holes by filling them each halfway with fresh potting soil. Have the watering can or hose within reach, and put on your gardening gloves if you prefer.

Step 4: Remove The Plant From Its Old Pot

To do this, gently grasp the base of the plant's stem or leaves and carefully pull it out of the current pot. If this is difficult, use a garden fork to loosen the soil around the side of the pot before pulling it out.

Step 5: Divide The Roots

Using clean garden shears, divide the root ball into two or more portions. The roots should be evenly divided between the portions. Discard any dead roots or leaves.

Step 6: Repot The Plants

Place each portion of the plant into its own prepared pot, ensuring that its roots are buried in fresh potting soil. Gently press down on the soil to ensure that each pot is stable and that the plant stands up straight. Water the plants thoroughly.

Tips And Considerations

It is important to remember that after splitting a plant, it may take some time for it to adjust and start growing again. Be sure to keep the newly divided plants moist and in indirect light until they start to show signs of growth. You may also want to consider fertilizing the plants to promote healthy growth.

Now that you know how to split a plant into two pots, you can have fun creating new arrangements in your garden and helping your plants thrive!