Growing The Classic Clematis and Keeping It Happy

The buds are peeping through, and the trellis is engulfed by twig like vines which look dry but come alive in the spring air filled with the bird song and sunshine. Time to welcome one of the most popular perennial vines.

The Clematis

This climber is known for is longevity, and providing an astonishing amount of spectacular blooms during its season.

This pretty member of the buttercup family has so many gorgeous colours and hybrids which have given many a garden a dramatic focus as they form around a trellis. Known as the “Queen of Vines”, its symbolism is as varied as the colours of its petals.

Originating in China and Japan, the Clematis represents over 300 species.

It has a USDA hardiness: 4 – 8

Planting

Plant in well drained prepared soil. If it is a young plant keep in a pot until its root system is strong enough to survive.

Don’t plant too close to a wall or a support, but plant towards the support.

Soak the plant in its original container thoroughly while you prepare the soil.

The root crown should be planted a few inches below soil level which will gives it a better chance of survival.

In containers

The plant can also be grown in containers as long as it is big enough for the plant and there is solid support. Pottery containers are best as the plant does not like its roots getting overheated.

Start with a healthy plant and using a chicken wire to encircle a post this will allow the plant to fill the trellis.

These plants love lots of water, so don’t hold back otherwise they will droop and drop.

O’ my sweet clematis,
So pretty hanging near me,
you do look parched.
it’s my water you seek,

Richard McClellan

Pruning

An important part of keeping your plant pretty and healthy is pruning. Without a clipping, it can get a bit scraggly.

The bottom of the plant will just have thin vines and top heavy in blooms. You will also be able to guide the growth around the trellis.

There are 3 different types:

Group 1 – Evergreen spring blooming – these do not need much pruning. As the buds grow from the old wood, it should be cut back a little right after blooming only if necessary to keep the plant tidy.

Group 2 – Growth is on both old and new vines. Trim back to get full fresh blooms all over.

Group 3 – Growth is only on the new vines stem. So cut back fully. These bloom in the summer and fall and will reach their full height.

Clematis are relatively easy to grow and a stunning addition to the garden. The photos of my pink stripe, and white petals clematis prove it.

Happy growing!

Further reading and advice

For more information there are societies dedicated to this amazing flowering perennial.

International Clematis Society

Royal Horticultural Society