How to Divide Herb Roots: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're a fan of gardening, you know that herbs are some of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow. They not only add flavor to your food but also have medicinal properties. However, as herbs grow, they may outgrow their pots or garden beds, leaving you with overcrowded and unhealthy plants. The solution? Dividing herb roots. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why Divide Herb Roots?

Dividing herb roots is essential for maintaining healthy plants. When herbs are left to grow without being divided, their roots become tangled and compete for nutrients and water, leading to stunted growth and poor health. Dividing the roots allows each plant to have its own space, access to nutrients, and room for growth. Additionally, dividing herb roots is an excellent way to propagate new plants.

When to Divide Herb Roots?

The best time to divide herb roots is during their dormant season or early spring before new growth begins. Herbs that are grown in containers can be divided at any time of the year, as long as they are not flowering or fruiting.

How to Divide Herb Roots?

1. Prepare the soil:

Before dividing the herb roots, prepare the soil where they will be planted. Ensure the soil is well-draining and nutrient-rich. You can add compost or organic fertilizer to improve the soil's quality.

2. Dig out the herb plant:

Use a garden fork or shovel to dig around the herb plant, making sure not to damage the roots. Gently lift the plant out of the soil, and tap off any excess soil clinging to the roots.

Herb plant dug out

3. Separate the roots:

Using your hands or a sharp knife, divide the roots into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has enough roots and shoots to survive. Be careful not to damage the roots while separating them.

Separating the roots of herb plant

4. Replant the divided roots:

Place each divided section of herb plant into a hole in the prepared soil. Cover the roots with soil, gently pressing down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly.

Replanting the divided roots

Which Herbs Can You Divide?

Not all herbs can be divided, and some may require more attention than others. The following herbs are easy to divide and propagate:

• Mint
• Lemon balm
• Chives
• Oregano
• Parsley
• Thyme

Dividing herb roots is an essential part of maintaining healthy plants and propagating new ones. It's a simple process that requires a little patience and care. By following this guide, you'll be able to divide your herb roots like a pro.

Mint, lemon balm, chives, oregano, parsley, thyme