September has a sneaky little gardening gift: the plants already sitting in the yard can become new plants without a trip to the garden center. By dividing established perennials, taking suitable cuttings, or separating plants before they move into their slower fall rhythm, gardeners can turn one healthy plant into several.
The timing makes particular sense because fall gives many perennials a chance to put down roots while cooler weather reduces some of the stress that comes with summer transplanting. That does not mean every plant welcomes a September makeover, though, and choosing the right method matters just as much as grabbing a shovel.
