How to Divide a Variegated Vinca Vine
- 1). Divide your variegated vinca vine in the fall, between four and six weeks before the first expected frost. This gives the new plants time to develop root systems before winter.
- 2). Wait until the forecast predicts cool, cloudy weather or light rain for two or three days. Water the variegated vinca well with the garden hose the day before you divide it.
- 3). Prepare the spots where you will replant the vinca vines. Loosen the soil with the cultivating fork to make transplanting easier. This minimizes the time the divided plants remain out of the ground.
- 4). Lift your variegated vincas' stems. Use the pruning shears to cut them to within 6 inches of the base of the clump. Shorter stems allow you to dig around the plant and move it with ease.
- 5). Dig a circle 4 to 6 inches from the base of the vinca vine with a shovel that has a sharp blade. Loosen the soil as you go. Work the shovel gently underneath the root ball until the clump moves easily in the hole.
- 6). Lift the vinca from the soil. Shake as much dirt as possible from the root ball, or hose it off with water.
- 7). Untangle the roots and examine them for natural division points. Use your hands to separate the root ball into smaller clumps at these points, leaving three or four stems of foliage on each clump. Trim any broken roots with the pruning shears. Moisten each clump in the bucket of water and place it in a shady area until you move it.
- 8). Transplant the divided vincas in their new locations. Set them to their previous depth in the soil. Firm the soil to eliminate air pockets, and water them well. Protect them from bright sun for two weeks.
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