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 Clematis
Cultivation
Clematis come in a wide variety of flower forms and colors. They
can be divided into three groups based on habit and time of flowering.
The first and second groups bloom on the previous season's wood
while the third group blooms on new wood.
The first group are the early-flowering evergreen species which
are suitable for warmer climates that lack severe cold. They require
very little, if any, pruning. Cut them back hard when they are first
planted.
The second group are the early, large flowered varieties that are
much more hardy. They are ideal for container plantings or for growing
through an already wall-trained tree or large shrub where the leaves
of the host plant can protect the blossoms from wind and rain. Lighter
colored flower varieties should be planted in shadier locations
and the darker flowered varieties should be planted in more sunny
locations. Prune group 2 clematis in early spring before new growth
begins.
The third clematis group contains the late-flowering cultivars,
both large and small-flowered. Climbers like 'Jackmanii' are in
this group as well as the lower growing herbaceous and ground-cover
varieties, many of which have striking seed heads after flowering
which provide added interest. This group should be pruned in early
spring before new growth commences.
Most climbing species of clematis prefer sun to part shade. Herbaceous
varieties prefer sun. Make sure that the roots are kept cool and
shaded. This can be accomplished by underplanting them with low-growing
evergreens. Clematis grow well in fertile soil that is rich and
well-drained. The pH should be kept neutral or slightly alkaline
for best results. Plant clematis 2 inches deeper than the soil surface
of the pot the plant arrived in. This helps buds develop below soil
level and aids in disease resistance. Do not situate clematis in
locations that remain wet in the winter months as this can cause
the thin fibrous root systems to rot very quickly.
For patio plantings in containers, choose a container that is at
least 18 inches across and 18 inches deep.
Water new plants well until they are firmly established. Provide
a mulch of well-cured manure or compost for the climbing and herbaceous
cultivars in early spring each year.
In early spring, new growth is very prone to damage by slugs. Clematis
may also suffer from aphids and powdery mildew. Freshly planted
large-flowered varieties may also contract a fungus known as Clematis
Wilt.
Clematis must be trained to their supports. Make sure that the
support you have chosen is sturdy enough to support the weight of
a mature plant heavily laden with blooms. If your support is a host
plant, make sure that the rates of growth are compatible, otherwise
the host may become overwhelmed and die. Tie new growth just below
leaf axil buds to the support in spring and summer. Space the stems
evenly, leaving room for new stems to grow. Prune all new plants
hard the first spring after planting unless the plant already has
more than three stems. This will avoid excessively long stems which
leave the plant bare at the base.
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