I learned a long time ago that nothing but good comes out of a good whacking! It promotes new growth, even in a plant that seems to have permanently stalled. But if the new growth ends up sprouting at the very end, just pinch it off and it'll start further back up the vine. And be sure to start new plants with your cuttings - there are plenty of people who want a piece of compacta to add to their collections and you can get something else in trade!

Denise in Omaha