When is the best time and tips to separate columbines?

Question

My columbines have overtaken my garden. How and when is the best time to remove some in order to not kill and give to someone else?

Answer 1

You should only divide them every two or three years. It's important to gently dig them up, separate the roots, shake out the dirt, plant them as separate plants. I would wait until they are completely finished blooming. Here's a more general article about caring for columbines:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/columbine