Dividing Coneflowers: How to Multiply Your Garden Beauty

Dividing Coneflowers for a Healthier, More Vibrant Garden

Are you looking to add more color and life to your garden? Dividing coneflowers is a great way to do just that! Not only does it allow you to create more plants from a single one, but it also promotes healthier, stronger growth. In this blog post, we'll go over everything you need to know about dividing coneflowers, from when to do it to how to care for your new plants.

Why Divide Coneflowers?

Coneflowers, also known as Echinacea, are beautiful perennials that come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, and white. They're easy to grow and care for, making them a popular choice among gardeners. However, over time, they can become overcrowded and to lose their vigor. This is where dividing comes in. By separating the plant into smaller sections, you can create more space for each one to grow, resulting in healthier, more vibrant plants.

When to Divide Coneflowers

The best time to divide coneflowers is in the spring or fall, when the weather is cool and moist. This will give the plants plenty of time to establish themselves before the heat of summer or the cold of winter sets in. Additionally, it's best to divide coneflowers every 3-4 years to keep them healthy and prevent overcrowding.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dividing Coneflowers

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools

Before you dividing your coneflowers, you'll need a few essential tools. These include a sharp garden spade, gardening gloves, and a watering can or hose.

Step 2: Water the Plants

It's important to water your coneflowers thoroughly before dividing them. This will make it easier to lift the plants out of the ground and minimize stress on their roots.

Step 3: Dig Up the Plant

Use your garden spade to carefully dig around the perimeter of the plant. Make sure to dig deep enough to get all of the roots. Then, gently lift the plant out of the ground and shake off any excess dirt.

Step 4: Divide the Plant

Use your hands or a sharp knife to divide the plant into smaller sections. Make sure each section has at least one healthy stem and root system.

Step 5: Replant the Sections

Once you've divided the plant, replant each section in a new location. Make sure to give each section plenty of space to grow and thrive.

Step 6: Water the Plants

After you've replanted your coneflower sections, give them a good watering to help them settle into their new home.

Caring for Divided Coneflowers

Once you've divided your coneflowers, it's important to take proper care of them to ensure their success. Here are some tips for caring for your newly divided plants:

Watering

How Often to Water

Water your coneflowers deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly hot and dry.

How to Water

When watering your coneflowers, make sure to water at the base of the plant rather than from above. This will help prevent water from sitting on the leaves, which can lead to disease.

Fertilizing

When to Fertilize

Fertilize your coneflowers in the spring and again in midsummer.

What Type of Fertilizer to Use

Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Pruning

When to Prune

Deadhead your coneflowers throughout the growing season to encourage more blooms. In the fall, cut back the stems to about 6 inches above the ground.

How to Prune

Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove spent flowers and stems. Make sure to cut just above a healthy leaf node.

FAQs

1. Can I divide my coneflowers in the summer?

It's best to divide coneflowers in the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler and moister. Dividing in the summer can be stressful for the plants and may result in poor growth.

2. How long does it take for divided coneflowers to establish themselves?

It can take several weeks for divided coneflowers to establish themselves. During this time, it's important to keep the soil moist and provide plenty of sun and nutrients.

3. Can I divide a coneflower that's not blooming?

Yes, you can divide a coneflower that's not blooming. In fact, dividing can actually stimulate new growth and encourage more blooms in the future.

4. How many sections should I divide my coneflowers into?

It's best to divide your coneflowers into sections with at least one healthy stem and root system. The number of sections will depend on the size of the plant and how much space you have in your garden.

5. What should I do with the extra coneflower sections?

You can replant the extra coneflower sections in another location in your garden, give them away to friends or family, or even sell them at a local farmer's market or plant sale.


Dividing coneflowers is a simple and effective way to promote healthier, stronger growth in your garden. By following these tips and techniques, you can create more plants from a single one and enjoy their vibrant colors and beauty year after year.