Dividing perennials in a drought

Question

It is very dry in our area. Can I risk dividing phlox, siberian iris and bearded iris st this time?

Answer 1

I would not divide them right now unless you can ensure that they will receive adequate water once replanted. It may be better to wait for spring instead, especially after winter or spring moisture has significantly penetrated the ground. This will also make it easier to dig up the plants. Doing so now in dry, hard soil will be more difficult for both you and the plant roots.