On May 4 at 5 p.m., Master Gardeners will be planting a new hosta garden at the Hall House Gardens. The garden will feature a variety of new and different hostas. The public is invited to not only observe, but participate in planting of not only hostas, but perennials and annuals as well. The event not only provides hands-on experience, but allows interested gardeners a chance to ask questions and observe new techniques.

The Rowan County Master Gardener Association will hold its 4th Annual Plant Swap and Sale on May 6 at the Cooperative Extension Office on Old Concord Road. The event is open to the general public, with the sale beginning at 9 a.m., followed by the swap at 9:30. Only perennial plants will be included in the swap. Bulbs, seeds, houseplants, annuals and perennials will be available at the sale.

Many perennials such as hostas, astilbes, dianthus, daylilies and gaillardia, benefit from being divided every few years. As plant clumps become crowded, bloom quality as well as quantity declines. Plant vigor also improves with division. Division also keeps aggressive perennials, such as artemisia, bee balm, obedient plant and lamb’s ear, from being too invasive.

For best results, select healthy plants that are in good shape and able to withstand transplanting. Check the plants carefully for insect or disease problems. Divide your plants on a cool, overcast day.

Cutting or gently pulling off sections of the crown is one method of separating perennials. Use a sharp tool to section off parts of the crown, making sure each division has a sufficient number of healthy roots to support the new plant. For other plants, it is easier to dig up the entire clump, divide the clump into smaller sections and replant one division in the original location.

Be sure to select an appropriate location for your new plant-ings, for example a sunny spot for daylilies, shade for hostas. Before planting your new divisions, loosen the soil and amend it with soil conditioners, if necessary. The new plants should be planted at the same depth as the original. Water thoroughly at planting and routinely, until the plant becomes established.

For anyone interested in attending the plant swap, the following guidelines will apply:

• Plants must be healthy, well established and free from insects and disease.
• All plants should be in pots no larger than a one–gallon nursery container.
• Plants must be labeled with plant name, required care and name of person swapping the plant.
• There will be a $1 registration fee for each person participating in the swap.
• Each person may swap up to five plants, but no more than two of the same type.
• If you receive a plant that you do not want, you will have the option to exchange it for a plant on the sale table.

Bring plants that you are proud of and would like to share with other gardeners, and join the fun on May 8.