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Perennial flowers are often divided to control size, rejuvenate plants and to propagate, or breed, a prized flower. Perennials are plants which die each fall and grow again in the spring. According to horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, some perennials, such as garden peonies, can be left alone for more than 50 years. Others, like bearded irises, should be divided every three to five years to avoid overcrowding.

According to the horticulturists, the best time to divide perennials varies with the different species of plants.

For those that should be divided in the spring, dig up the flowers in early spring when new growth starts to appear. Then divide each plant clump with a sharp knife into sections containing several shoots and some roots. Next, replant the divisions immediately and keep the perennials well watered through spring and summer.

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