The Corkscrew Rush is an ornamental sedge prized for its distinct, dark green stems that twist and curl. This unique plant brings an architectural element to bog gardens, pond margins, and container arrangements. While it can be grown from seed, vegetative propagation through division is the most reliable method to multiply the plant and preserve its twisted characteristics. Division also rejuvenates older, dense clumps that have become root-bound or begun to die out in the center.
Optimal Timing and Necessary Tools
The most successful time to propagate Corkscrew Rush is during periods of mild temperature, which minimizes shock and stress on the plant. Early spring is optimal, allowing the plant to dedicate energy to root establishment before summer heat. Division can also be performed in early fall, giving roots time to settle before winter dormancy. Gather a sturdy garden fork or spade, along with a sharp, sterilized knife or set of garden shears for making clean cuts.
The Step-by-Step Division Process
Start by carefully removing the entire clump from its current location. If the plant is in the ground, use the garden fork to dig a wide circle about six inches away from the perimeter of the stems, lifting the root mass intact. Gently shake or hose away excess soil from the root ball to expose the rhizomes and roots. This allows you to identify natural divisions or sections where the plant has formed distinct clumps.
Use your sharp, sterilized knife or shears to slice straight through the dense root mass, separating the plant into smaller, viable sections. Each division must contain a healthy portion of the root system and at least a few strong, spiraling stems. Avoid making the divisions too small, as larger sections establish more quickly. Discard any old, woody, or dead material from the center of the original clump, as this central portion often becomes unproductive.
Transplanting and Establishment Care
Once separated, divisions must be replanted immediately to prevent the roots from drying out. Corkscrew Rush is a marginal aquatic plant, preferring consistently moist, bog-like conditions and thriving in rich, loamy soil with high organic matter. Ensure the crown of the division—the point where the stems meet the roots—is level with the soil surface, as burying it too deeply can lead to rot. For container growing, use a pot without a drainage hole or place a standard pot into a tray of water to maintain saturation.
Thoroughly soak the soil to settle it around the roots. The newly transplanted divisions benefit from a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Monitor the divisions closely for the first few weeks, keeping the soil continuously wet. Consider providing temporary shade during the hottest part of the day until new growth confirms successful establishment.