Can Hostas Be Divided Without Digging Up?

Question

Since hosta’s are supposed to be so hardy, why can’t they be divided in the ground by cutting thru soil down thru roots, rather than digging out the whole plant?

Answer 1

You can cut them that way, but you may not get a good division. It is easier to divide them when the whole clump is brought up. But if you can do it easily by cutting from the side, it won't hurt the plant.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/hosta/dividing-hosta-plants.htm