Blue Limestone Columbine

Small Flower Columbine should be watered every 2-3 days when the soil is dry to the touch. Make sure to avoid over-watering and only water when the soil surface is dry. It is important to check the soil daily, especially during warmer weather, as the soil can dry out quickly. It is best to use tepid water when watering your Small Flower Columbine and avoid getting the plant leaves wet in order to prevent them from becoming diseased. Water should never be allowed to stand in the pot for more than 30 minutes.

Small Flower Columbine (Aquilegia brevistyla) prefer full to partial sun, and do best with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. For more growth and flowering, 8-10 hours of direct sunlight is ideal. When planted in full sun, it should be protected from temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If temperatures are excessively high during the day, it may be beneficial to provide some shade or move the plant to a more sheltered area. In the cooler months of fall and winter, Small Flower Columbine can handle some light shade.

Small Flower Columbine should be pruned once a year during the early spring, before the new growth emerges from the plant. Pruning helps to encourage new growth and replenish the old. Start by removing any dead or damaged stems. Cut back the entire plant by 1/3 to 1/2 its height. Cut down the old flower stems to the base of the plant to encourage new flowers and help encourage bushiness. Removing spent flowers will also help to maintain the plant’s health and vigor. To keep the Small Flower Columbine in a neat and compact shape, you can pinch back the growing tips of any branches or stems.