Clamatis

Clematis come in a variety of colors, and bloom at different times throughout the season depending on the variety. They can be trained to grow up trellises or arbors, to cascade over walls or climb up into large shrubs and trees. Clematis can be used to frame porches or entryways, to screen unwanted views and unsightly utility poles. Established Clematis will provide years of pleasure if properly planted and cared for.

LOCATION

Most clematis tolerate full sun, all are happy in partial shade. Protect them from the hottest afternoon sun.

SOIL AND PLANTING

Soil should be moist but well drained. Clematis will not tolerate waterlogged soil, especially in winter. Amend clay soils with organic materials (i.e. Superfines soil conditioner and composted manure), adding 1/3 soil conditioner to 2/3 existing soil. Clematis root easily and planting deeply will help prevent stem damage. Cover the crown of the plant and the rootball with 2-3 inches of soil. The roots of clematis like a cool soil. Mulch well, or grow in the shade of other plants. Place a low wire cage or screen around the stem to protect it from breakage. Fertilize with a slow release fertilizer (i.e. Merrifield Flowering Plant Food or Osmocote) in the early spring or use an organic food in spring and summer. Clematis like a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Add lime to increase the pH where necessary to promote healthy roots.

Clematis can be hit by wilt. If this happens, cut back the dead part (if deeply planted) to ground level and the roots will resprout. Be patient, and don't dig! It can take months to come back.

PRUNING

Group 1 These early flowering species produce flowers from nodes formed the previous year. Prune only if you need to reduce bulk or restrain growth. If pruning is necessary, it should be done immediately after flowering.

Group 2 This group includes numerous species that flower on current season's shoots. Either no pruning is required or they can be reduced by 2/3 of their bulk. Any weak or damaged shoots can be removed or selectively remove a few shoots to rejuvenate 8-10� above ground level. Do this in early spring just before growth begins.

Group 3 This group flowers from buds produced the previous season. Clematis lanuginosa and patens are part of this group of early and mid-season large flowered cultivars. This group is best left unpruned, however, if necessary remove weak growth and reduce the remainder down to the strongest pair of lateral buds immediately after the first flush of bloom.

Spring flowering montana and fall flowering paniculata can overwhelm trees and shrubs if not pruned to restrict growth.

A list follows with color, pruning guidelines, and bloom time. Selections will vary with availability.