I had 1 Columbine for 2 years planted on the southwest side of my house. It bloomed both years and was doing quite well. At the end of summer, I had some cuttings in pots sittng in the bed with the Columbine. I watered them daily with root stimulator and I think all of the runoff gave the Columbine a case of wet feet because all of the sudden it started wilting real bad. I moved the pots away and tried to let the Columbine dry out a little, but I saw no improvement. I had been thinking about dividing it for some time, but was nervous about killing it in the process. Well, I figured I might as well try it because it looked like it was in pretty bad shape and what did I have to lose. So, I dug it up and divided it into 6 little clumps. I covered the roots in cinnamon as I had recently learned that cinnamon is a good anti bacterial. I got a big clay pot and put a mixture of sand, native soil, and compost in it (drains fairly well). I planted the 6 clumps in a circle in the pot and watered them every other day with a root stimulator. 3 of them perked up almost immediately but after a few days they were all poor looking. About a week went by and I had almost given up hope for them, and then I noticed some green at the base of 2 of the clumps. 3 others started budding the next few days. Now, I have 5 healthy little Columbines in the pot, and I'm not anticipating the 6th one to come back as it had very little root, but you never know. This may be something that y'all are experienced with, but I'm not. I had never grown anything from cuttings, or divisions, or anything but seed until I joined DG. I'm quite proud of myself and wanted to share this with y'all, just in case there were others out there who had no idea. If your Aquilegia ever seems like it's a goner, try this and maybe you can multiply instead of subtract.
Aquilegia Divided Successfully
Good idea, it is worth a try especially if it is in distress.
I used to only do divisions because I am always changing my mind on where to place plants.So I would dig up and get more plants. I share your excitement to see a rescue success. It is only since joining DG that I started seeds and rootings. A whole new door has opened.
Bronc, did you cut them back? I'd love to divide my blue one, but I'd really hate to kill it.
The yellow columbines that I dug for the RU were whole plants (self-seeded). I only had a 50% survival rate.
PB, I did not cut them back. I just tried to divide them to where each clump had plenty of root.
Well, you've motivated me--maybe I'll give it a shot. Thanks!