Our perennial division work day was an overwhelming success despite the poor weather. We were expecting over 50 volunteers (mostly Master Gardeners) today and had set up the entire division project outside. Morning showers necessitated moving/cramming everything in to our horticulture center. This included table, plants, tools, soil, etc. We had about 35 volunteers show up and it got crazy right away. Five tables inside each had between 4-6 volunteers working on dividing whatever perennials we brought in. Each team was a riot and formed a collective personality that was memorable. Another team of volunteers was out in the drizzle with flat spades, working on dividing larger clumps of perennials in to smaller sizes that could immediately be potted up by one of the five "interior" teamsl. Needless to say, productivity was superior and we finished up around 10:30 am with 2,500 new divisions and a totally clean and tidy horticulture center. Although it was hectic at times, the team spirit was evident and everyone was proud of the effort and results.
Many of our prairie grasses and warm season grasses (like Miscanthus) are barely emerging from the soil. They'll grow quickly as the soil warms in the coming weeks. However, cool season grasses and sedges have emerged weeks ago and are contributing both color and texture in the garden as I type. This image of a variegated sedge (Carex morrowii 'Silver Scepter') illustrates the value of texture in the part shade garden. Be careful with sedges and realize there are clumping sedges that stay relatively tame but the running sedges can become a vigorous nightmare. Research any sedges before you put them in your garden. This sedge is a clumper by the way. Notice the sea of grape hyacinths below! 
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