Regarding the ones that didn't come up --- dig them out and see if they are mushy. If so trash, don't compost.

Sounds like you did a good job. And a job it is! Did you break pieces apart? And then let them "scar" overnight in a dry shaded spot? Soil borne disease can infect a fresh cut.

Beardeds may be divided right after bloom up until 6 weeks before your first frost. I prefer right after bloom in my zone (we're not as hot then as we are in late summer). I also flood the bed after replanting and then no water for a month or until the upper 4 inches or so of soil dries out.

i did try to break them apart, and then let them "dry" in my garage over night.

I guess I will try it again this year. Thanks for the encouragement!
It is hot here now, so I think I will try to wait for a cooler day!