This month in your yard, look for opportunities to move and divide perennials — and don’t forget to water your plants!
by Helen Yoest

I developed my interest in year-round gardening by shopping seasonally for plants — there is always something to enjoy. This month, I’m planning to add a couple of native understory trees to my garden, including the pussy willow, which serves as the host plant for the larval stages of the Mourning Cloak and Viceroy butterflies, among others. Here’s what else I’ll be up to in the garden!

Water!

With cooler temperatures, it’s easy to forget to water. In the absence of rain, give each new planting a good soak once a week. If it does rain, let your rain gauge determine if more water is needed. An inch of rain per week is ideal.

Transplant Shrubs

Now is a great time to assess any possible rearranging of shrubs such as beautyberry, anise and sweet box. Here’s how to do it safely: Tie low-spreading branches with soft twine to gain the easiest access. Dig a trench around the shrub, 12 to 14 inches from the base of the crown, then dig around again, this time tucking the shovel under the root ball to begin lifting it gently. Then transplant it to a new spot and water. Tip: Dig the destination hole before transplanting (or purchasing) a tree or shrub to lessen the time the roots are exposed.

Divide Perennials

Thinning out perennials such as bearded iris, daylilies and garden phlox will not only give you more plants, but also increase air circulation and reduce the threat of mildew. For the iris, cut foliage in a fan shape (about 4 inches high). Dig up a clump, and using a clean knife, cut the rhizomes, leaving some leaves on each one. For the daylilies, dig a clump, separate the tuberous roots, and plant elsewhere. As garden phlox spreads, remove clumps to other parts of the garden or share with friends.

This article originally appeared in the November 2025 issue of WALTER magazine.