bulb division

In horticulture, bulb division is a method of asexual plant propagation. It involves separating a mature bulb into smaller sections, each capable of growing into a new, genetically identical plant. This technique is used for plants that reproduce naturally through bulbs, such as tulips, lilies, and onions.123

Asexual propagation, including bulb division, offers advantages like the unchanged perpetuation of desirable plant traits and potentially faster growth compared to seed propagation. However, it can also lead to a lack of genetic diversity, making entire plant populations susceptible to the same diseases.2

While the term "bulb" is sometimes used loosely in horticulture for other underground storage structures like corms and rhizomes, true bulbs are modified stems with fleshy leaves that store food, allowing the plant to survive dormant periods.34