I seem to have fallen in love with hostas. I have a large one growing in a space by itself that's about 36 inches by 36 inches. I would like to know how to divide the hosta and plant the sections so I can get rid of some of the weeds.
Joyce Nash, Bronx
You're in luck: Dividing hostas is one of the simplest gardening chores on the planet, and though it can be done in the spring and summer, early fall is the ideal time.
Dig up the entire plant and then use a garden fork or spade to split the root clump into halves or quarters. Larger plants obviously allow for more divisions. Just be sure each root section has leaves above it.
The task can be made easier by hosing off the roots, which will make the clump softer and also allow you to better see what you're doing. Replant each new section, and you're done. Though your newly divided hostas will look a bit mangy, they'll each come back as full plants in the spring.
