Question
Dear Tom:
Actually, I have been struggling with this "issue" for a few years. I really love my Johnson's Blue when it blooms, but I struggle with its "sprawl and lankiness" every year. Plus, the plant is very thick with stems. An old garden book tells me to cut it back; however, I cringe every time I do that. So, I have been cutting it back, and it has survived the few years that I have had it. However, I would like a better idea of the truly correct way to prune a plant such as this one. I leave a few leaves, but many of the stems are just that--stems. Is this okay? As I said, it is very thick with stems. Is this a pretty good indication that I need to divide this plant? My book tells me that spring is the time to do this. Is that truly the case?

I hope you can follow my (perennial) geranium story. I appreciate any suggestions that you can give to me regarding the care of Johnson's Blue.

Thank you.
Ann

Answer
Hi Ann,
Thanx for your question.  You can divide the plant in early fall or in the spring right after the last frost.  I would cut the plant down to about 3 inches above the soil.  Dig it up and cut the rootball into halves, then quarters and so on until the new rootballs are the size of golf-balls.  This ensures a large enough root system so the plant is able to nourish itself and reestablish.  You can cut the plant back entirely when it starts looking messy and unfortunately, many of the crane's bill will get messy.  It's just their nature.
I hope this helps.
Tom