ALEXANDRIA — As autumn settles in and the first frosts arrive, many Minnesota gardeners are wrapping up their growing season. But before you hang up your trowel, consider one last task that can set your garden up for success next year — dividing perennials.

Why divide? Perennials are plants that return year after year, but over time, many become overcrowded, less vigorous, or start to die out in the center. Dividing them helps:

Rejuvenate plant health.

Promote better blooming.

Control plant size.

Create more plants for free.

When to divide — In Minnesota, early to mid-fall (September through mid-October) is ideal. Aim to divide perennials four to six weeks before the ground freezes, giving roots time to settle in before winter.

What to divide — Not all perennials like to be dist

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