What is the best angle from the vertical for a clematis trellis?

Fix the trellis vertically,inserting spacers so it's clear of the surface and to enable the tendrils of the clematis to cling,the plant will then be self-supporting.


If about to plant a clematis,do so in such a way that one or two leaf joints are below the soil.Planting like this means the plant can be cut back if clematis wilt occurs.


Assuming the trellis is being fixed to a wall,plant the clematis 4-6" away,so that rainfall reaches it and provide a cane or pea stick as. support

What is the best angle from the vertical for a clematis trellis?
It's not going to matter to the clematis. What ever is stable. They'll climb it if it's in any way going "up".





As far as what conditions clematis like - they like to have their base in the shade, and the top in the sun.
Reply:The only thing a Clematis wants/needs, is it roots in the shade? and water too!
Reply:96 degrees in the shade

Do you cut a clematis vine back or will it come back on it's on?

I have never grown a vine like this before. It get's alot of sun and water.It is next to the garage and shelterd some. please help me if you can.

Do you cut a clematis vine back or will it come back on it's on?
Hi,


Try this place, you'll find lots of good info: http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/clema...





http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/vines...





http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/





Hope this helps, I learn something new at every visit to the gardenweb.


Dave
Reply:I have three different types. "nelly moser " looks better if I leave it alone. the other 2 look better if I cut them to the ground. Sorry I can't remember their names but both are purple. One has small single flowers the other is double.
Reply:This is a hard question because there are several varieties of clematis. Some flower only on old wood, while others flower only on new wood. If you cut back the one that only flowers on old wood, you will sacrifice your flowers for next year. If you don't cut back the new wood kind, you'll have far fewer flowers on it. The only options are IF you know what the flower looks like, you can go to a gardening website and try to identify the variety, then you can research what type it is. Or, you can just try cutting it back and see what happens next year. If lots of flowers, great. If only leaves, don't cut it back again. Good luck!
Reply:I always thought you should not cut them back but here's a website with all of the cutting back information you could want. It seems it depends on what kind of clematis you have.





large.http://www.ext.nodak.edu/extnews/hortisc...





Hope this helps!

I have a small blue bell shape clematis, do you know the name?

Could be an old variety called clematis pitcheri, or leatherflower clematis.





http://www.missouriplants.com/Blueopp/Cl...

I have a small blue bell shape clematis, do you know the name?
Can't tell without pictures. Try this site:





http://montana.plant-life.org/genera/Cle...





Good luck.

How to get up all the roots from a sweet autumn clematis?

I had planted it deep and it overgrew the spot so tried to dig it up, but the root system spread deep and wide and part of it is near the wiring for my t.v. cable. Any ideas on how to get it all out of my flower bed because the least bit left will start a whole new plant in short time. Also don't want to cut the cable.

How to get up all the roots from a sweet autumn clematis?
If the roots are far enough away from the cable that you can dig the soil out, dig deep enough to get to the root ball, place a rock bar under the ball and leverage it out. Any remaining trailers, you should be able to pull by hand by following them to their ends.





Or an excavator but you'll still have to follow the trailers.





Aside from that, I don't know!

safety shoes

Main part of my clematis "died", but rest of the plant is still green and growing?

I have a 'Sweet Autum' Clematis that is roughly 3 years old. The main part of the plant has "died" but everything coming off the main stalks are still green and growing. What's wrong with it and what can I do to solve the problem?

Main part of my clematis "died", but rest of the plant is still green and growing?
The plant is not dead. At most it has been hurt and trying to regrow. I have a clematis that sounds like is doing the same thing. The winter killed all of last years growth but new vines are coming from the base and is a lot stronger and healthier than last year. Just give it time and leave it alone, unless it is dry and needs water, and it will be just fine.
Reply:I would just leave it alone for now, its a pretty hardy plant so I,m sure in time it will rejuvanate itself, might take till next season tho, but wait and see before doing anything harsh.
Reply:I have a "Sweet Autumn" clematis and this is typical and expected for this clematis. By the time mine is growing well, I am able to just break off all of last year's growth. I just go around the plant and gently break off everything that comes off easy.


Mine is now about 8' tall and doing well. Do you have alot of new growth?


Just so you know, I live in central NY.
Reply:Sound like mine which got damaged by a week of frost last winter. Hubby hard pruned it back which I thought would kill it, but it is coming back like crazy. Although I let him think it was the pruning that saved it, I also gave it a little boost with some fertilizer, too.
Reply:they like shady feet plant a shorter plant in front of it
Reply:I have a group III clematis too (flowers come from this year's growth) and it is not uncommon for it to have whole vines die off when it's water stressed. If I keep it watered and the base shaded, I have been able to get June and September flowering up here in Michigan. If I let it go in July, it will look it it has died and then come back next spring.

When and how do you prune clematis?

I have just let this plant grow and would now like to get it to bush out. It is very well established, but grows upward.

When and how do you prune clematis?
All clematis are not pruned the same. Depends on the variety. Some flower on new seasons growth, others on last seasons growth. So you ideally need to identify your specimen to know which action to take regarding pruning. If for example you had what should be an early flowering variety on last years growth, and you pruned it hard too early in spring you will have removed its flowering ability.These should be pruned AFTER flowering. On the other hand, if it's a later flowering type, pruning in spring is ok, new growth appears and in due course, the same season, flowers. Oh yes, the plants will survive if you prune them wrong, but they will give reduced shows of flower, possibly none at all.
Reply:Most clematis are prolific growers once established and will tolerate a variety of pruning styles. Since they bloom on the new growth, you can literally cut yours to 2-3" from the ground after frost. You can prune the same way in late June, early July, followed by a fertilizing (clematis response very well to fertilizer) to see another shot of blooms for late summer.


If you want yours to bush out, train it on something that will promote lateral growth by continually pruning the leaders to your desired height.
Reply:always prune at start of growing season, when you fertilize.
Reply:Clematis are a climber and are meant to grow upwards, I prune mine in early spring
Reply:A clematis is supposed to grow upward. It reaches for the sunlight.
Reply:very simple remember flowers before June do not prune later than that after flowering cut to the ground with plenty of muck

Can a Clematis be divided?

I have a Clematis Flammula plant. It's gorgeous when it's in bloom. But it's HUGE and it's taking over. We don't really want to relocate the plant because it's in the perfect spot and it does what we need it to do. (it provides shade for our air conditioner unit) Can these plants be divided? Thinned out like you can do to other plants when they get too big. If I can how would I go about doing that, when is the right time?

Can a Clematis be divided?
yeah, plants are really resiliant. Most survive even the harshest trimming (I wouldn't recommend this though!) Not sure where u are in the world so it would depend on the season. Trim in late autumn/early spring.
Reply:dont dig up it all just dig arround the edge and remove and replant or make some gardener happy with the roots in the early spring for you in chi town late may

I'm trying to find out if Clematis Jackmanii attract too many bees to have it on an arch that's an entryway?

To get to my back door and patio you walk under a wooden archway attached to a fence. I want to plant a vine to cover the arch and fence, but am worried about the bees hovering and/or stinging. Any thoughts or suggestions?

I'm trying to find out if Clematis Jackmanii attract too many bees to have it on an arch that's an entryway?
The bees are only at flowers for nectar and pollen. If you leave them alone, they will leave you alone.


Certain perfumes will attract them. If one comes near you, DON"T SWAT AT IT! Turn and walk away. Walk under a low hanging tree or through some bushes to break up your sent. They take that as a sign of aggression and will then sting which releases a pheromone that calls others bees for help.


Signed: licensed beekeeper
Reply:As far as a clematis having a lot of bees I have never noticed the bees on the clematis lets say compared to a sunflower or monardia I think you will be just fine.
Reply:I haven't noticed that the large-flowering clematis types (like Jackman) attract bees excessively. I have a "Will Goodwin" and a "Gypsy Queen" growing alongside my deck, and there have been no problems at all.


One clematis to AVOID planting near an entryway is paniculata (Also called "Sweet Autumn".) It blooms in September with hundreds of tiny flowers, and mine attracts so many honeybees that the entire thing buzzes when it's in bloom!
Reply:I have that clematis at my home and I've never seen bees around it. That's not to say they don't like it, I've just never seen them on mine. I have about 5 plants growing over an arbor, so there's ample opportunity.
Reply:I don't have any actual proof, but i don't think clematis is pollinated by bees, and I've never seen a bee around any clematis, so you should be okay. If it's a question of allergies to bee stings however, you may want to ask at a garden shop to be sure.

How to keep curls in

Do I have to remove a clematis plant that has gotten wilt from the root?

Or may I just remove the vines? I only have one healthy one left of 10 and don't want to lose that one too! Any ideas on preventing/traeting wilt? Is it true that the plant may grow back next year?

Do I have to remove a clematis plant that has gotten wilt from the root?
Clematis wilt is caused by the fungus Phoma clematidina. Spores are produced from tiny fruiting bodies on the infected stems, and are spread by water splash. The fungus can remain in the soil for many months in old infected plant tissue.





Cut back the wilted shoots to healthy tissue. This may mean pruning below the soil surface. Clean out all old and infected clematis plant material from around your plant(s). Do not allow fallen leaves to remain in fall. Destroy (burn or bury 6" deep) or remove this debris from your site. Be sure to wash your pruning tools with a 10% bleach or 75% alcohol solution and dry between cuts.





The plant does not need to be dug out because new shoots may develop below the wilted section later in the season or the following spring.





Mulch around your clematis to help prevent future splashing of spores on to your clematis leaves.
Reply:remove the diseased parts and it will grow back

Should clematis be trimmed back every year or should you just leave the old growth?

Is there anything I can do to encourage their spreading habit?

Should clematis be trimmed back every year or should you just leave the old growth?
According to Garden Gate magazine there are three types of Clematis: A, B, and C. How to prune depends on which type you have. Group C gets cut down near the ground in the Spring. Group B gets trimmed at the tips and thinned out where vines overlap. Also remove dead and broken branches. Group A never gets trimmed all the way down, just cut back the tips.


Good luck!
Reply:I normally trim the runners close to the base, but leave the main vine.. letting shoots grow further up... the whole thing looks dead and horrible in winter but comes back beautifully in spring... also check paul james website 'gardening by the yard' it's packed with awesome info for the green thumbers !

Can I transplant clematis that was accidentally dug up?

A couple of days ago, my sister accidentally dug up some clematis plants thinking they were bulbs, I live in Chicago and it has been very cold and rainy, the plants have clumps of soil still attached and look "dead" (but I think they looked that way before pulling). Can I still save them?

Can I transplant clematis that was accidentally dug up?
Yes,it is amazing with plants.They can look dead,but make sure they are wet,replant them.You could also get some food for them.They will come back to life next year.
Reply:Yes you can just put them back in your garden and cover the roots with soil and water it. The reason it looks like its dead is because winter is coming. It is a perennial by next year it will grow back i have one in my garden for 2 years.
Reply:I agree with big teddy that the plant can be transplanted now. I wouldn't advise using a fertilizer for it is to late in the year to feed. You can use a root booster/stimulator ( not a rooting hormone) so that the plant will take root more quickly.
Reply:I agree with previous answers but I would also put some mulch on top after planting to give it a little added protection until it settles in again.

I just ordered clematis how difficult will it be to care for?

I ordered the crystal fountain, will it just climb my fence? How do I prune it and when? any help would be greatly appreciated.

I just ordered clematis how difficult will it be to care for?
They are easy, one golden rule with clematis, feet in the shade, head in the sun. Think carefull where to site it in the garden and shade the bottom of the plant, I used to use a bit of slate as it blended in with the garden. You will also need to give it something to support itself ion, it cant just grow upwards, you will get a label with details of what the specific one likes, read them carefull, when you plant, also place a bit of fertiliser in the bottom of the hole and a good watering after
Reply:Crystal Fountain isn't one I am familiar with, but I have many other clematis and I love them. Pruning type should be on your label. They like Epsom Salts and tomato food for feeding. You will have to help attach them to whatever they are climbing on - they won't attach themselves. It is a good idea to plant them a few inches deeper than they come planted so that if there is a die-back there will be enough left at its base for it to start over. When I have a clematis without a name tag I have just cut them down to a low bud in the spring and haven't had any bad results. I have read that it is no longer considered important to have their lower parts in the shade and heads in the sun and have seen no difference in their success. I find them easy to grow and a real pleasure to have in my garden, on a trellis, climbing trees, over arches, on climbing roses. Good luck and enjoy!
Reply:Clematis are one of the easiest plants I have growing. I have a


total of 6 at my home. Plant the roots deeper than other plants,


give them some support, and your in business! They are one


of the most fastest, prolific bloomers that I know of. I just love


them!!!!! You won't be sorry you ordered them.
Reply:Read the label it comes with carefully , Each type of Clematis requires different pruning. Some you cut right down, some you don't touch and some bloom only on new wood (or is it old wood? not sure) anyway the label will tell you how to prune or it will say type 1 or type 2 and you'll have to look it up in a gardening book.Other than tricky pruning clematis are pretty easy, 'roots in the shade , head in the sun' is easily accomplished if you plant a low growing plant right in front of if and place it in full sun.

sandals church

How long will it take my clematis to grow up the side of my wall and will it do it without a trellis?

I have it growing in the ground to the right of my front door and have a piece of wire i have trained it up, how long will it take to become established and will it attach to and grow up the brick work?

How long will it take my clematis to grow up the side of my wall and will it do it without a trellis?
You don't say which Clematis it is ? there are thousands ! If for example it is the montana type, then it very fast growing and doesn't need much pruning, but it will need supporting. If it is one that flowers in late summer you will need to hard prune it in spring to within a few inches of the previous years growth. If it is not a Montana but is Spring flowering, light prune immediately after flowering. Whichever one it is it will need supporting ! Hope this is helpfull, good luck.
Reply:I have a gorgeous clematis growing in the front on my home. It will DEFINITELY need a trellis, or like someone else said, perhaps some chicken wire. In the beginning, I had to train in up the trellis, but then it grows where it should. Sometimes I use twist-ties to tie the plant to the trellis or even to other parts of the plant. It will grow fairly quickly. Also, if you weren't aware, put a nice pile of mulch over the roots at the base of the plant. They like to have cool roots.





The plants grow out as well as up, so you will need to trim it back each year.





Enjoy! You'll be the envy of your neighbors.
Reply:Those things grow like crazy, they will send out curly cue things that grab onto whatever is there and try to grow itself higher. I think a little wire or something would be just fine.





At my house I have to cut it back every year.





EDIT: I have to cut back about 6 feet of it! All I leave is about 18 inches
Reply:Two seasons and they need some support.Trellis or wire.

How do I get my Clematis to grow better this summer?

I have covered the roots to keep them cool, but I still only had about 5 blooms in 06.

How do I get my Clematis to grow better this summer?
The first thing to do is make sure the clematis you are attempting to grow are appropriate to your growing zone. Here is a link to a website that will let you determine which zone you live in:





http://www.jerrybaker.com/index.asp?Page...





Your next task is to determine whether or not you are following the best growing instructions as to soil type, fertilization, watering, pruning, etc.. Here are a couple of links to my favorite plant care websites:





http://www.gardenguides.com/





http://www.jerrybaker.com/





Good luck with your clematis this year.
Reply:it could be the soil --- it needs to be rich in humus , but sort of neutral .


is your position right ? lets assume it is --- clematis need a regular fertilising programme ( in and around spring ) and of course cut out the dead stuff ( or sickly ) . with that humus by the way , needs to be neutral .


otherwise i can't help --- they love the sun ; but the roots need to be cool . good luck .


i repeated myself about the compost --- sorry !~
Reply:I'm waiting to find out what you find out!!


I've planted them in the sun with plants around the roots to keep them cool. They bud and look like they're going to flourish and then just 3-4 blooms at a time......NOT very spectacular. I've tried at least 5 different varieties.


Good Luck.

How to care for a clematis in small pot indoors?

There were no directions that came with the plant and I'm wondering how to care for it. It's in a little pot with about 5 bright pink blossoms. I'm thinking of keeping it inside for a week of two but will it die? How much water, how often, does it need a lot of sunlight? I'm in Orange county, CA. If I decide to plant it outside, what is a good spot? Thanks for your help.

How to care for a clematis in small pot indoors?
It is definately an outdoor plant and in California is should do quite well. I wouldn't keep it inside too long or it will not fair very well.


Growth Rate


The old saying about clematis growth is,


1.“The first year they sleep,


2. second year they creep and


3. third year they leap.”


Growth may seem slow as the plant builds its root system, but once established, clematis are strong growers.


IT IS IMPORTANT TO READ THIS


**************Problems***************


http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC1...


Clematis require full sun to grow best (6+ hours direct sun per day) though some dappled shade during the heat of the day is beneficial. Flowers of some red and blue large-flowered hybrids and the bicolors fade badly if they get too much sun


The roots like a cool, moist environment.


((With the exception of C. montana,)) clematis do not compete well with large tree roots. Most clematis will require staking so the twining leaf petioles can cling and climb upward,


http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/12...





You would do well to read what to do from the links.


Good Luck!
Reply:They are not usually an inside plant, and if planted outside they prefer full sun or partial shade, with a good weekly watering after it is established. If you have had it indoors you will need to harden it off before setting it directly out in the sun.


(a little bit of sun/wind/cold on your patio each day, getting longer each day)


If you keep it inside, it will need to go through a dormant period, where you water it very little until it begins to leaf out once more.


Good luck
Reply:Needs lots of sun, keep soil damp, but not wet.

Planted clematis this year along my fence. Can anyone tell me the best way to encourage it to grow?

I tried it a couple of years ago without much success. This year, much to my surprise, it hung in through a very dry summer. Should I cut it back for the winter or leave it as is so the new shoots can climb the old vine? Any tips on how to keep it growing and spreading would be great!

Planted clematis this year along my fence. Can anyone tell me the best way to encourage it to grow?
Clematis are lumped into 3 categories for pruning. Group 1 or A, Group 2 or B and Group 3 or C. You need to know which type you have or you could prune it incorrectly. With a little research, you can probably find the one you have if you know the name or look on websites to match the flower.





Here is a link for information: http://www.donnan.com/Clematis_care.htm





Best of luck.
Reply:Even through times of drought, you must water. This was a hard year for everything. Next year, it will go crazy.
Reply:Find out how to cut back your particular strain, I had planted one that never bloomed and grew very little after the third year I cut it back in the late fall to about 1' above the soil, the next two years it has grown and bloomed like crazy!!!!!! So much so that now I need to take hedge shears to it to keep it from going everywhere.
Reply:Keep it's head hot and it's feet cold.

rain roots

Why does my clematis vine stop blooming so early in Summer?

I have a beautiful purple clematis vine growing on a large trellis. It blooms profusely in late Spring, but does not bloom into Summer like so many others I've noticed. Could ants be eating the blossoms? I removed the spent flowers and pruned it a bit....also removed a spider web. I feed it periodically with plant food, and its roots are protected with pine straw. Any ideas to keep it flowering. It makes a beautiful statement beside our porch.

Why does my clematis vine stop blooming so early in Summer?
Pruning could be the source of your problem. Clematis blooms from the new growth, not the old woody stems. Some early bloomers will bloom a second time, but most bloom only once. Find a later blooming variety and plant it with your existing one. The vines will inter-twine and you will have an extended blooming cycle. There's quite a variety out there that bloom at different times. I've intermixed early, mid and late bloomers to extend the show.
Reply:Some varieties are early bloomers. yours may be one ( I have some, too... they bloom PROFUSELY in the spring and that's it...). If that's the case.. you can't make them bloom again. You might check with a local nursery to see if there would be a little later blooming variety and you could grow them together...?
Reply:WHELL MOST LIKELY ITS THE CLIMATE CHANGES.;..BUT YOU CAN TRY TO PUT IT ALOT MORE IN THE SUN

How do i grow clematis to grow up a telephone pole and mailbox?

if i plant them will they naturally grow up and twist around or do i need to train them somehow? need help...

How do i grow clematis to grow up a telephone pole and mailbox?
Get a good thick size knitting yarn to do a loose tie of the plant with enough slack in the circle to give it room to grow.





And you should be okay





When it gets three circles of growth around the post you can let it go on its own. And cut off all the yarn. Except the high one keep it in place till the summer is done.





Just keep it trimmed to the shape you want.


- - -
Reply:My neighbor squared an area around her mailbox, planted clematis next to the mailbox wood post, then marigolds surround the post. The clem. will grow up the post naturally. But, if it is following the sun, you may need to string it a little bit. Keep the base of the plant in the shade of the marigolds, or what ever you chose.
Reply:I have used chicken wire wrapped around poles. It works for self clinging and twining vines. The wire is soon covered by the branches and is not noticeable. I leave enough room between the wire and pole to allow plants room to twine their branches around and through the wire.
Reply:I usually use yarn as a guide for most of my climbing vines. This will work well for your mailbox, but you might be violating a code by planting around a utility pole. You might come home one day and find it pulled up or sprayed by the utility company.
Reply:Utility companies frown on things growing up the poles. And yes, you need to train a clematis.

What's the best Clematis to grow in zone 8-9, Easiest, with abundant long flowering period?

My clematis isn't doing very well. I do keep the roots covered with large pieces of oak bark and/or other plants, and the vine which is climbing up the cyclone fence is in sun for approx 6-8 hrs per day. But it seems to just barely be hanging on. One variety and the unhealthist, is a "will goodwin", the other only one I have I don't know the variety but it makes pretty deep purple flowers, and is doing a little better than the W.G. My soil is naturally around 5PH. Should it be raised for clematis, if so with what, besides lime. Also, will the clematis climb up a brick wall? or do you know of any type of flowering plant that will climb a brick wall where it would get only 3-4 hrs of morning sun (east side of house) My thanks. as is, as was, as will be, trickyricky

What's the best Clematis to grow in zone 8-9, Easiest, with abundant long flowering period?
My favorite Clematis is 'Henryii'. It gets large white flowers, and will bloom in the spring and in the fall.





Here are a few additional cultivars that I have found to be reliable:





'Dawn' is light pink and white


'Niobe' is a reddish/burgundy color


'The President' is dark purple





I'd be happy to e-mail you a few pictures of my plants if you want to see what these cultivars look like.

Any idea why my Clematis are dying?

I had three Clematis vines growing in pots on my deck and up the railing. They were doing beautifully! One day one of them looked a little wilted, I watered all of them and the next day it was fried. Totally crisp. The other two were fine so I thought it was ok. Then the second one went. What is wrong with them?





The pots are rather large so I doubt the roots are being crowded and it gets a decent amount of light but it is under a roof. It gets some direct sun.





They were in the ground last year but I moved and had to put them in pots. This is their second season.

Any idea why my Clematis are dying?
These plants have very fragile stems which can easily be damaged. When stressed or when stems are damaged, clematis are susceptible to a disease known as clematis wilt. The disease starts at the tip and may affect part or all of the leaves and stem, but does not affect the root system. Should your plant wilt, simply remove and destroy all the affected stems.





To minimize stress and improve chances for success, plant the crown of the plant 2-4” BELOW the surface of the soil, mulch the root zone, and keep the plants moist and regularly fertilized.





The roots of the clematis don't like to be hot. Are the pots getting too much sun? If so, pile a mulch around the pots and keep it moist.





Hope this helps.
Reply:Thanks for the info freakiecatsmom. This is happening to my clematis as well, only the whole plant seems to be done for. Now I know. Report It

Reply:Do you have holes at the bottom of pot ? If not, make sure that it is there to drain extra water....

Teeth

Will a clematis climb up my retaining wall ?

I want to plant clematis to climb up my 6ft. retaining wall. Can they climb up without assistance? Or do I have to provide some sort of support and if so what? Will my retaining wall bricks be sufficient support?





Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Will a clematis climb up my retaining wall ?
Clematis need support to climb. If the wall is concrete, you could drill mortar screws in the mortar of the concrete and attach the vine to the screws with plant tape. The wall bricks should be more than sufficient support. The clematis will outgrow the wall, so I would train it to spread across the wall by keeping it cut back from the top. That way, the clematis will not go over the wall but across it. Most clematis tend to grow about 20 feet long with a few exceptions. The President Clematis is my favorite because the blooms are 6 to 7 inches long and are a dark purple color.
Reply:I would think they would need some sort of support to grasp onto the brick. I have a plastic trellis that I have to loop each twine around to get it started. You can use fishing net wire to train them also. When you plant the clematis you should plant it at a 45 degree angle to make it easier for them to climb.

Whats the best way to grow clematis?

i have clematis montana fragrant spring ive planted it in the ground put a weed control sheet on top and stones around the base the leaves look quite dark and the ends a bit shrivelled whats the best thing to do and how big does this type get

Whats the best way to grow clematis?
The key to clematis' growth is keeping the root area cool. as long as the stones aren't a dark color, which attracts heat, that should be ok.





There is a specific "rot" that clematises get but i do not know the exact name of it. I would check out www.bhg.com for more information. (that is better homes and garden's website).
Reply:Stones and/or the weed control sheet might be heating up during the day if they are getting sun and they might be cooking the roots. Otherwise I think it might be planted a tad on the shallow side and not staying moist enough as a result. Depending on your zone, the will regrow from the top or from the roots each year - in either case, each year the roots will get larger and stronger, so the regrowth will be longer and mor vigorous. If you fertilize it, it will grow more rapidly during the year and produce more blooms if you use a flowering plant fertilizer. Dark leaves are OK, but the shriveled part is not.

Please help, How tall will my hygrangea and my clematis grow this year?

I just planted them today. I have 2 clematis', one is a foot and a half tall, the other is about half a foot (its because there different species) And there are no blooms yet. My hygrangea is a little more than a foot tall with no blooms yet. How tall with they grow to in the summer by like augest? thanks in advance

Please help, How tall will my hygrangea and my clematis grow this year?
Don't expect too much from newly transplanted plants the first year. Clematis may grow 2-4' the first year, but you will not have many stems. This plant just will not have much presence until it can establish a root system. Look for substantial growth the second and third years.





Again, your hydrangea will suffer from plant shock the first year. It is difficult estimating the growth you will get on your Hydrangea without knowing what kind of Hydrangea you planted. My Unique Hydrangea grew less than 6" the first year. An Annabelle type Hydrangea might give you a little more growth the first year, but it will not be substantial.





P.S. Don't fertilize the first year. Your plant needs to establish a root system, not lush top growth. Wait unitl the second year to fertilize.
Reply:it all depends on amount of water, and other weather condictions, and use of fertizer. 12-18 inch's average.

How do I take care of a clematis?

I just bought a clematis(rosemoor) It does not bloom yet.It is in a container and I will keep it in a container. when do I fertilize it?do I need to get ride of the whole soil and put a new one?when and how?what is the name of the best fertilizer?when is it going to bloom?It's just three feet height,is it going to get hiegher and spread this summer or next year?It is my first time so please help me

How do I take care of a clematis?
It needs to be planted, not in a container. They live a very long time if kept right and have a deep root system. They do best on an east or west wall or along a fence because they are a vine and need a trellis for support. A clematis vine will get very large and the usually bloom in my area in about June. Different types bloom at different times though.





**
Reply:that particular clematis blooms on old and new wood so limit your pruning of the plant.


If you are going to grow it as a container plant make sure the container is shaded, clematis don't like their roots to get hot and they like their trunks to be in the shade. they like to get lots of sun on their leaves though.





it will grow and spread so make sure you have a sturdy trellis for it the stems tend to be a little brittle. they max out at 10 ft, but I wouldn't expect that in a container grown plant.





I'd recommend osmocote timed release fertilizer for it at the recommended rate on the bag/bottle. It will probably bloom off and on all summer.





I assume you will have this plant growing outside, it won't perform well indoors.
Reply:Dig a hole and plant it somewhere where the roots are in the shade, but its head is in the sun. If you only have a spot in the full sun, put some rocks around the roots to keep them cool.





Chop back in the early spring or it will go mad!


You don't say what variety it is.....Have a look for the type you have in the link below and follow the specific care for that type.
Reply:Try these:


http://www.beginner-gardening.com/clemat...


http://www.gardenaction.co.uk/plantfinde...


http://www.essortment.com/all/growingcle...


Good luck............!
Reply:call your extention service in your home town. they help with all gardening questions.


call your city hall for the phone number
Reply:http://www.homeofclematis.net/index.htm

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How tall will my hygrangea and my clematis grow this year?

I just planted them today. I have 2 clematis', one is a foot and a half tall, the other is about half a foot (its because there different species) And there are no blooms yet. My hygrangea is a little more than a foot tall with no blooms yet. How tall with they grow to in the summer by like augest? thanks in advance

How tall will my hygrangea and my clematis grow this year?
Hard to tell. In Zone 5, clematis usually doesn't grow all that much in the first year. Then in the second year it will grow a lot. Last year I bought a new one and this year it is about a foot tall. Two years ago I planted one and I now cannot find a trellis big enough for it.





Hydrangea is a little more complicated. It really depends on what kind. Years ago I bought one and it has never really done that well. There are now different ones that will come back better.





Basically, don't expect one of those magazine gardens for a few years. When you first start planting it takes some seasons for it to look filled in.





What color is the clematis? Lately, there have been some really funky ones!

Can Honeysuckle and Clematis work well together?

We have planted last year Two clematis's and a honeysuckle in the centre, all thriving at the moment, but were wondering would the clematis strangle the honeysuckle.


if the honeysuckle needs to be moved when is it best to do that

Can Honeysuckle and Clematis work well together?
The work very well together don't worry , what a lovely display you are going to have.
Reply:Have you got a picture of them?


What sort of clematis is it? (if it's montana, then that grows ultra fast)


How close are they planted?


Do they look too close?





I've moved and planted honeysuckle at just about everytime of year and can't say I've noticed any differences. I was told at college that the dormant season is the best time to move plants, but if they're as vigorous as honeysuckle I don't think it matters.
Reply:The honeysuckle will smother the clematis,unless it's a montana type.Eventually the roots of the clematis will not get enough rain as the HS has many branches and will cover the root area.Move HS in early march at first sign of wake up.Cut back hard before moving
Reply:As long as you don't mind them mingling together, they will be fine.





But if you're like me and like to keep the plants seperate, then the Honeysuckle will need more room





They won't strangle each other and should thrive
Reply:As long as the honeysuckle has room to spread and is not being smothered by the clematis, it should be ok!
Reply:the answer is yes I have Clematis growing through most of my shrubs besides up fences They are good to bring colour


to most plants
Reply:the honey suckle is a strong individual and shouldn't be smothered i think they will live together quite happily, just keep your eye on their condition it'll give you a reason to just admire them
Reply:You can train them to go where you want them. They'll be fine. And very pretty I bet!
Reply:Yes, they can work together.

While weeding I accidently pulled up a huge clematis root. I pushed it back into the dirt, will it survive?

My clematis vines are 'Nelly Moser' and I planted them last spring. They are just starting to come back and are small, so I didn't realize how extensive the roots were. I was weeding well over a foot away from the vine and when I pulled up the huge brown root I knew it had to be the clematis because nothing else is planted near it.

While weeding I accidently pulled up a huge clematis root. I pushed it back into the dirt, will it survive?
you did the right thing i think it will survive the shock just put alittle extra care into it this summer.make sure you give it some fertilizer and it will sure to come back.
Reply:I'm going to guess it will be just fine! =) I have done the same thing, and mine lived. It may be a little slow to bloom this season, but it should be ok. =)
Reply:It sould be fine

So i guess i shouldnt cut clematis all the way down... does this mean it will still grow?

today i cut my mother's clematis plant down so it is about six inches off the ground....will it still survive? will it still flower?

So i guess i shouldnt cut clematis all the way down... does this mean it will still grow?
clematis need to be researched to see how the one you have needs cut..... and when....





do you know it's name?... when it flowers?.... does it flower twice in the year?....





here's something to read about it...





http://gardening.about.com/od/perennials...





when in doubt, don't cut.... some clematis make it obvious , like the nearly wild Sweet Autumn.... it's vines die in winter and if not cut back nearly to the ground, there's old dead stuff all over it the next year... see?... but the bigger flowered ones don't give a lot of hints.... I go by the rule of 'when in doubt don't cut'..... and mine flower fine.... I clip off any dead vine later, after the leaves come out....





since you've already cut, just make sure the plant gets a good feed and then get a picture of the flower so you can make a stab at finding it's name and pruning type....k?...
Reply:Yes
Reply:yes it will be fine```

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What is the best fertlizer for my red clematis, or the best way to take care of it?

I bought the plant last year at a farm store and it never really grew. I thought it went dead and when I walked out back today was pleased to see it is starting up the trellis and is about 1 1/4 ft tall. Its a red one which personally I have seen purple and pink, but never a red clematis. What is the best way to care for this little vine popping up? Should I put some fertilizer on it and what kind? I read somewhere that clematis loves soil which has had lime put on it. I could be wrong though. What can I do to make it grow or should I just leave it alone and be careful not to mow over it and look again in a month or so? Do they like water?

What is the best fertlizer for my red clematis, or the best way to take care of it?
Your clematis needs full sun all day. If you planted it last year, and it is growing now, give it a fertilizer with a high middle number. This number is phosporous which channels the plants eneryg into building a stonger root system. Also mulch the roots to keep them cool.


As far as liming the soil to raise the Ph, mine grows in a very acidic siol and thrives.


Keep it well watered especially before fertilizing. Most clematis only flower for about 4 to 6 weeks, but in another year or two, it will be spectacular for you.
Reply:The Clematis vine likes to have cool roots so you can either cover the base of the plant with good soil or manure(I use a manure humus mixture you can buy at most retail stores)just kind of make a little mound around the base another good idea is planting low growing plants around the base to protect the roots so one of my clematis vines I planted colubine and it works great-I have a beautiful vine that blooms and around the bottom I have another plant that blooms a couple of times through out the season-during the growing season all plants need water atleast once a day unless its not drying out and once it starts blooming it needs more water-good luck!
Reply:fertlize once in the spring and make sure the root area is shaded but keep the vines in the sun.. the more sun the better ur blooms will be!

How do I take care of the clematis I planted?

I planted a clematis last spring/summer.It was show stoppingingly beautiful.I left the vine intact over the winter and it turned brown and dead looking.It is growing green buds all over it now that our temp is in the high 60's.How do I properly care for this plant once the blooms are gone?

How do I take care of the clematis I planted?
First of all, what type of clematis do you have? I have just attended a talk last month hosted by a man who owns a clematis nursery. He handed out a lot of info on caring for them, but there are three distinct types.





1. Group 1- No pruning. Varieties in this group of winter an spring bloomers require no pruning at all. This includes members of the Atragenae group, Montana group, and Evergreen group. If any pruning is needed to keep the plant tidy, take out dead stems or broken ones and for general renewal it should be performed soon after the main period of flowering.





2. Group 2- Light Pruning.Varieties in this group are principally the early large-flowered types that bloom in late spring to early summer, and then again in late summer to autumn. The double-flowering types are usually included in this group as well. Pruning commences in early spring when buds begin to swell, and you can determine what wood is alive. First, prune out the dead or diseased wood which should be obvious. Then, starting at the top and moving down to about 1/3 of its height, prune just above a strong pair of buds on each stem. If there is a tangled mass of stems, just cut below this, separate the stems and tie to a support. After the first flowering period, give the plant another very light pruning and fertilise to stimulate the next round of blooms.





It is recommended that young Group 2 plants are given a very hard pruning to help develop the root system and promote the growth of additional stems from the base of the plant. This is critical to the health and development of this type; after this 2 years of hard pruning, you can go to the regular light pruning this variety is famous for.





Group 3- Prune hard. This includes the late large-flowering types, Jackmanii types, late flowering species, and the Viticellas and their related forms; and the Herbacious types. they all bloom on the current year's growth which is new wood, and require hard pruning in early spring when the buds begin to swell. Starting from the base of the plant, prune just above the second pair of buds or about 12-18 inches from the ground.





Fertilise and mulch clematis after pruning.





Always make sure the ground is moist before fertilising. Clematis are heavy feeders and should be fertilised and mulched just after pruning in early spring using a balanced fertiliser. For varieties that produce a second period of flowering, another feeding is recommended just after the first flowering has finished. As a general rule, stop fertilising once your plant is in bud with flowers; and do not fertilise later than mid-August. You can top-dress around the base of the plant with aged manure or bone meal in the late fall and scratch it into the soil. This is very beneficial. Plants in containers should be fed in early spring with a timed slow-release fertiliser and supplemented with a liquid fertiliser once per month.
Reply:I have a deep purple one on a trellis by my mailbox that I love, I planted it at least 6 years ago. I have heard that it likes cool roots so I keep it well mulched in the summer and it is by an irrigation head so it probably helps. When the foliage looks ugly and the flowers are gone, I cut it back to the ground and it doesn't seem to hurt.
Reply:Mine is a summer and fall blooming type. I trim it back in the spring. Some years I trim it down to about 6 inches and other years I trim it to about 2 or three feet. I have always had wonderful vines with bushels of flowers. Don't forget that many like to have their roots in the shade but the vines in the sun (mulch the roots).
Reply:Train it to climb by cutting off wayward branches. Keep the roots covered with a mulch and do not let water "sit" on the roots... I have heard some people cut it down to the ground in the fall so that it will rejuvenat come spring time...

Should a Clematis be cut back each spring?

Not sure if I should cut my Clematis back now...I only planted it last year and am not sure how to care for it. Our spring is just starting here so now would be the time to do it, I guess.

Should a Clematis be cut back each spring?
In order to know whether or not you should cut your clematis back, you need to know what kind it is. The reason for that is that some clematis bloom on old wood, some on new wood, and some on both. Here are some links with more information for you:





http://www.clematisnursery.com/Pruning.a...





http://gardening.about.com/od/perennials...





http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/champaign/...





And a whole bunch of pictures of different kinds, in case you aren't sure what you have:





http://www.chalkhillclematis.com/nursery...





Good luck! I love clematis!
Reply:that depends on which kind of clematis you have. No --- don't go running looking for it's name. Easy to figure out.





When did it flower???








If it flowered later in the year that means the flowers formed on the new stem growth. That means you should cut it back now so you can get lots of new growth which will give you what you really want from it which is lots of flowers.





However if the flowers were there in early spring it means they flowered on stems formed last year and if you prune it now you won't get any flowers. Those need to be pruned after they have flowered.





If you are not sure then just leave them for this year and see when and also where on the vine they flower.


If it is at the tips of the stems it means it is on new stems( also called new wood) and this will tell you that next year you should prune early in the year.





have fun
Reply:only take off the first 6-8 inches of the growing tips;I cut mine right back last year - its a new one - and its slow growing this year with few flowers.....

Differences in using Silver fleece vine as opposed to Sweet Autumn clematis?

I have heard it is better to use the clematis as it is not as invasive and looks similar, but how true is this?





how are they different?





I think i prefer the look of the silver fleece vine more though not sure.





thanks for your answers!

Differences in using Silver fleece vine as opposed to Sweet Autumn clematis?
They are both extremely invasive. They both go to seed in the fall and the seed gets scattered everywhere. The only way you can control either of them is to make sure you cut the seed heads off as soon as they finish blooming.





Silver lace grows really fast and can cover a small shed in a single season, and is harder to control. Soon you will have a yard full of nothing but that.





Autumn clematis doesn't grow as fast, but it needs to be cut down each spring almost to the ground, and will reach the top of a fence or trellis before summer is over.





Of the two, I prefer the clematis. It smells really sweet and blooms in August-Sept., and looks wonderful with morning glories growing through it and blooming with the foamy white flowers. It looks like lace on top of my wall.
Reply:Depends on how much you have to cover , and how quickly . Also, will anything you don't want covered be within 6'-8' of it?Silver Lace Vine is faster . It blooms over a longer period . That said , I prefer Sweet Autumn clematis overall . There's a summer-blooming species,Clematis fargesoides,http://www.donahuesclematis.com/flower/F... that looks almost identical . If you plant both together, you'll have flowers from mid-June 'til November , and they don't engulf other things as voraciously as Silver Lace .

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Can I grow tomatoes with clematis?

I have a well established clematis plant, will it hurt to grow tomatoes on either side of it since they need support too?

Can I grow tomatoes with clematis?
In my experience, tomatoes get way huge in the around direction so they need a different type of support than clematis do. Also, tomatoes love lots of sun while clematis like their feet in the shade so their needs are different in that area too. Tomatoes need tons of water while clematis don't, really.





Just go buy some tomato cages. They aren't that expensive. Then plant your tomatoes in full sun. Both plants will be much happier.





But that's just my opinion.
Reply:i wouldnt think it would hurt anything but it will crowd the clematis and possibly tug and pull on the vines which could harm it. also it may take over the water suppy of the clematis. well u have my answer but it may not be the best for i have had no luck w/my clematis. seems that is the only plant i have that i just cant satisfy. good luck
Reply:I doubt it. You can build one big support for the both of them. Just make sure to sink your stakes or supports deep enough.
Reply:I would think that if you have room on either side of the clematis, and the trellis (or whatever you're using for support) can handle the added weight, it should be okay. Just make sure it's strong enough.

I bought a clematis at a farm store and the package said it would be red. What happened?

This is the 2nd year for it and it is not red. The very 1st bloom is purple. Did they lie on the label or did the clematis turn purple over some soil problem. I really wanted a red clematis. Red is my favorite color. I am disappointed.


Should I try again and buy another one? I just cannot imagine they packed a purple clematis in a red clematis box. I have never seen a red clematis.

I bought a clematis at a farm store and the package said it would be red. What happened?
Here is a photo of a true red clematis:


http://www.jacksonandperkins.com/webapp/...





Apparently, a purple clematis (very common) was mistakenly placed in a package meant for a red one.
Reply:Try parkseed.com
Reply:There are NO red Clematis. Often the descriptions are a little misleading, and "red" = all types of purple/mauve. `Ville de Lyon`is possibly as `red` as it gets.
Reply:i have never seen a red clematis either but you can buy maroon which i have , its not bright red but its very dark velvety rich colour. they must have made a mistake or may be they call it red .
Reply:Sometimes the seed producers label the seedlings wrong. And if not that, then the greenhouse that grew the seedling mislabelled it. I've worked in a greenhouse for over 20 years and this does happen. It's nothing you did. I'd buy another, maybe from a different store. Just in case.

Should i grow clematis on a trellis or just let it grown on its own?

i want to grow clematis on my mailbox. would it be better to grow it on a trellis behind the mailbox and hope that it grabs onto the pole or should i just grow it there without the trellis?

Should i grow clematis on a trellis or just let it grown on its own?
You need a trellis or net. clematis send out spring like tendrils that seek support for the plant to climb.
Reply:Clematis doesn't grab like other vines do. You could use strings to hold the stems on or as you suggest the easiest way would be to use a trellis. You also could just let it grow into a bush like form but I think you would be happiest with a trellis.
Reply:clematis is a vine and should be supported by a trellis or something it can climb. you will have a much healthier plant and get the full benefit of the blooms
Reply:I have had a clematis for years, it is best on a trellis, and it is very viney and will wrap itself thru it.
Reply:Got to have a trellis. Remember it will grow in HOT sun, but keep something over the roots. It likes to have cool feet.
Reply:What you can do is get some green tie wraps and train your clematis to grow up your mailbox. I do this on my deck.
Reply:I suspect you will need a trellis. I had to do that when I wanted it to climb up a hard surface.

Where does the Clematis come from?

I have a Clematis Viticella L. growing, I was wondering if it's a native species here in America/Canada or if it's been introduced and where does it originate from.

Where does the Clematis come from?
The original Clematis was first discovered growing wild in the forested areas of New Zealand. It eventually made its way to Europe and Asia, then to the America's where it is now found growing in our garden's as well as growing wild. Most of the common hybrid varieties found in Nurseries have been propagated from these original varieties. Many improvements have been made over the years by plant breeders with new and more vibrant colors popping up all the time as well as improved hardiness and growth habits. Your particular species of "Viticella L." originated from the temperate zones of Asia and was "introduced" here in the America's. Hope this answers your question.





**Billy Ray**
Reply:From:


http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symb...


(lots of good information on the above link)





Introduced Information:


Clematis viticella L.





"This plant is introduced to the United States from another country or countries."

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Something is eating the leaves of my clematis; any ideas?

I have my clematis planted so it get the south sun all day. Something is eating the leaves on it. I don't see anything on them, such as bugs. Any ideas as to what it might be?

Something is eating the leaves of my clematis; any ideas?
I have the same problem. Here (Denver) it's earwigs that are doing it. They leave little holes in the leaves and flowers. I tried using a small tin can with oil in it (they crawl in and can't get out). That got some of them bad it's a bad problem here. You rarely see the little bugger as they blend in with my mulch. So, now I put a powder insecticide on and around the plants. Will see if that works when there's more new growth.
Reply:could be leaf cutter bees
Reply:are you sleepwalking?it could be you!
Reply:Rabbits or aphids. The first you can drive off with anti-pest spray and the second, you spray soapy water on your leaves.
Reply:Ants, termites, squirrels...could be anything

Our clematis montana has suddenly taken a turn for the worse dying back from the ends and top all the way back

My 3 year old clematis montana here in nw Oregon just started dying back from the ends going back towards the main stem. 2 weeks ago it was really healthy. It's growing on a 6 foot high fence. It sort of reminds me of what a herbicide does to plants. If I cut it all the way back to the main stem will it grow again. Or what are suggestions on it?

Our clematis montana has suddenly taken a turn for the worse dying back from the ends and top all the way back
I have a nelly moser clematis


and they are prone to mildew and need to be sprayed every 2 weeks with a fungicide

What is eating my iris and clematis?

i have some iris in a raised-bed with some clematis next to them. And i noticed that something has been eating round holes on my clematis' buds and cutting off my iris flower stem and clematis young growths (they don't eat the iris flower but just cut off the stem)


Both happens about a foot up (or just below the top bud of the iris) from the soil line, below that, things are pretty much untouched. So I don't think it's slugs or snails.


What ate them?

What is eating my iris and clematis?
Slugs and snails will eat round holes in the leaves but they hardly ever eat the stem off. To check if it's slugs or snails go out there about 3 hours after dark with a flashlight and see if you see any. If they are not there by then, they are probably not your problem. It sounds like a small mammal to me. Rabbit, chipmunk, ground hog--something like that. Do you ever see any of those things around your place?
Reply:Sounds like rabbits to me.

Is it necessary to remove clematis and roses to create a raised flowerbed?

neighbour reckons we should cover it all up and everything will be fine clematis is fairly well established same goes for roses will it grow back through ?

Is it necessary to remove clematis and roses to create a raised flowerbed?
The clematis will be fine but not the roses. You can try to dig them up but it's not usually too successful. Burying them deeper will bury the graft and you'll probably end up with a lot of shoots from the rootstock.





**
Reply:I don't know about clematis. But, I have experience with roses.





If they're dormant (middle of winter), you can actually cut the rose bush back to foot-hight canes and dig the plant up. Then plant it back again after building up the bedding as a bareroot. I did this when I had a planter reduced in size once. I had to move the rose back, because it was too far up front in the planter. It came back just fine the next year.





If you notice, most roses can be bought as bareroots from a nursery. They're pretty hardy when in the dormant stage. Don't do it when they've already started sprouting, though. That kind of shock can kill the plant.
Reply:Yes they will both grown back, they will push their new growth up through the soil and re-grow. You could always incorporate a climbing frame for them to grow up and give extra height to the raised bed creating a layered bedding effect. We've done this and it looks very nice with the clematis and roses in the background plus we can change the bedding plants every year, if they are annuals that are plants.





Hope this helps and have a good evening/day ;-)
Reply:Clematis should be absolutely fine as they recommend you to bury the bottom buds anyway to allow them to grow back if they ever get clematis wilt - not so sure about the roses it would depend what type they were - if climbers I woudl say you'll be fine otherwise a bit of a gamble but should be ok. I'd give it a go.
Reply:Won't do the clemantis any harm at all.





The roses will throw out side shoots if you cover their crowns, so it isn't such a good idea.





You can try to lift roses and replant them when they are dormant during the winter, but the results are less than spectacular if they survive.

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Clematis jackmanii, how should i store over winter if I've planted it in a container? PLEASE ADVISE?

i've planted my clematis jackmanii in a container. I'm in zone 4. After cutting it back in Fall or until it stops blooming, how should i store it??? Would an unheated garage be ok, where it dips to temps as cold as outside, but is protected from wind? Or should it be in complete darkness like a basement, but has temps equal to that of the indoors? PLEASE advise!

Clematis jackmanii, how should i store over winter if I've planted it in a container? PLEASE ADVISE?
Jackmanii is the fastest and one of the largest of all clems and you should find a permanent place in your garden for it. It will quickly use up the nutrients in the container and bloom poorly. Clems like thier heads in the sun and thier roots in the shade so try to find it a spot like this. bear in mind that it will want to grow toward the sun and will bloom best on it's sunny side. If you must keep it in the container I would recommend simply burying the pot in the ground maybe on the south side of your house out of the winter winds and mulch over it. It should be hardy in your area and besides, Clems are so cheap now you can take a chance.
Reply:it hardy to zone 2 to 3. the best thing to do is dig a hole in the garden and bury the pot and plant and mulch over it.








some have been killed off in zone 3 so the garage won't be that good for it

How should I plant a clematis to get it to climb a mailbox post?

After doing some research I decided that I'd like to plant a clematis at the base of my mailbox and hopefully God willing, it will climb the post and create a beautifully decorated mailbox post. Is there any suggestions as to how to plant it? Also, is it best to use seeds or starter plants?

How should I plant a clematis to get it to climb a mailbox post?
Try to find a plant with buds low on the stem and two stems if possible.


Plant after frost and as long as soil is not waterlogged. The soil must be fertile, well-drained, and humus rich.





In heavy or adobe soil dig a big hole, preferably 24"x 24". In lighter or sandy soil, a hole 18"x18" will do the trick. Save only the best of your topsoil. Amend the soil as conditions dictate.


Clematis root are very fragile so cut the container off gently. Gently remove the clematis rootball from the container and plant it in the hole so that the base of the plant's stems are sunk 3" to 5" below soil level. Leave the original stake on the clematis for the first year to act as a support as well as a protection against accidental breakage.





Mulch the area around the plant 3" to 4" over the root zone. but keep the mulch well away from the stem to avoid stem rot.


To encourage growth of more stems all clematis can be cut down to the lowest pair of healthy buds in their first Feb. after planting. This delays flowering on those that bloom on old growth but ensures new shoots and strong base growth.


In spring, once the clematis buds are about 2 inches long begin feeding them.





Clematis come in categories. The label will tell but pruning is important with clematis.


Cat I no pruning


Cat II light pruning


Cat III hard pruning





Small clematis only 6 1/2 feet;


'Edourd Desfosse', 'Corona", 'Westerplatte' (only 3 1/2 ft), 'Minister', 'Ice Blue'


C. florida "Alba Plena' or 'Sieboldii'


There are many small herbaceous scramblers but you would have to tie them to the post. Even climbers will need something fine enough for them to climb the post. Lee Valley sells a trellis for posts or down spouts.





If you desire a larger clematis than your mail box will accomodate is there another plant like a rose or a tree for the clematis to climb onto?
Reply:Clematis IS very easy to grow. I do suggest starting with starts (as big as you can afford!) as they do take time. If your mailbox is set in cement you want to accommodate for that, possibly with a nice planter box around the base. Every plant grows better with rich dirt, fertilizer, water and the proper lighting! Enjoy!
Reply:I'd use a starter plant, there isnt much to growing a clemitas other than keeping it watered and doused with plant food. Just make sure to keep tieing to the post as it grows.
Reply:For seeds or starters, I would say starter plants. Then your guarenteed to have something grow. Though they can be expensive make sure you shop somewhere that has a one year guarentee (or more) just incase it gets sick.





Plant it near your mailbox and simply wrap the vines up and around. I would suggest tieing it with string so it stays up, it should start to grab hold and grow up on its own fairly quickly.





If you insist starting with seeds, don't plant them right by your mailbox post. Start them off in a pot (egg cartons work great for sprouts) and once it reaches a reasonable size, transport it into your desired location.

Which clematis vines are the best in your opinion?

I have heard that sweet Autumn clematis is very nice





but also have heard that a vine called Sweet Jasmine is very nice as well and blooms for most of the season.





Please state the reasons for your opinion too.





Thanks for your answers!

Which clematis vines are the best in your opinion?
Sweet autumn clematis


is far superior to sweet jasmine in my zone 6B.


I have one that grew in the last drought and bloomed its head off in autumn. The butterflies and hummingbirds love it. The blooms smell great. It can be trimmed in the spring to give a cleaner look without worrying about losing blooms.





For summer blooming clematis, I like Jackman clematis. The big purple flowers just grab my attention and it has very few disease problems for me. I have grown it in two states without problems.





Jasmine is nice but it is just not tough enough.
Reply:Jack Mannie's are purple and their pretty hardy. Their also easy to train.

When planting several clematis vines next to each other in front of a lattice..how much should you space them?

Generally how much space will each clematis vine take up on the lattice roughly and should most clematis be cut back to the ground each winter after frost?





Thanks for your answers!

When planting several clematis vines next to each other in front of a lattice..how much should you space them?
For most Clematis, you don't need more than one plant every two to three feet. Each year they will grow longer and wider and thicker. Even if you cut them to the ground - the next year you will have a larger plant.





Yes, most Clematis "can" (not should) be cut back to the ground each winter after a frost. Also, if you get a late frost in the Spring that kills the growth..after it has sprouted...cut it again.





If you do not cut it back...it will grow out of the old growth. It depends on whether you want to look at the sticky vine in the winter. Good Luck.
Reply:About 2ft,but the important thing is to ensure that both climbers grow to the same size as one will strangle the other.Needs to be a moist bed,especially with 2 clematis sucking out the water
Reply:Depends on the variety,jackmanni can be left to grow and will cover a large area.Some species hybrids should be cut to the ground each year.other hybrids only need the side shoots shortening.


The only ways to find out are to consult the supplier for advice,study the individual labels or surf the web-it's impossible to generalise.
Reply:the vine will do fine it is the routs you need to worry about they need a good 2 ft area to grow

email

Can I plant CLEMATIS plants in a ground-level flower box?

Ive actually already done it - as I had no choice. I am growing clematis vines up my fence but there is no soil at ground level - only cement.


I have built a large flower box, about 10 feet long but only a foot deep and a foot wide.


Will the clematis survive? At the end of the flower box its possible for eventual roots to exit and find the soil in my yard, but otherwise they are confined to 10ft / 1 ft / ft.


Thanks for any info!

Can I plant CLEMATIS plants in a ground-level flower box?
yes it'll be fine! i've got two growing the same way! if u live around zone 5 u might want to think about some straw later on when the weather gets cooler around the planter to keep the plant a little warmer! good luck!
Reply:I have a EF Young that has been growing in a 3ft long 1ft deep windowbox with a trellis in it. It has bloomed like crazy twice a year for 6 years in this same window box. I think it would depend on the kind of clematis you have.
Reply:CLEMATIS is a woody vine that is a periennial which means it comes back every year bigger and better. They like to dig deep with their root system, therefore you may want to build another box to go on top of the original to allow for more root space....and remember, wood rots.


Whiskey barrells won't due to the lining on the inside. Big %26amp; deep! Need to water anything often in them tho.





1. Check for your local growing zone area at your local gardening center to see if the roots will survive the temps in your area in the winter, ....say Florida is a Yes vs. Minnesota is a No due to drastic temp changes and freezes.





2. Should work if it has a partial shade area where constant sun and heat won't burn it up, and the root system has plenty of fertile soil, drainage to keep the roots from rotting.





3. Cut plant back about 6-8" tall when dormant in the winter. This forces the food to go back to the roots and spring up new shoots in the Spring.





4. Covering it up in the winter with heavy mulch can keep the roots from freezing due to acting as an insulation barrier.





Just love it while you have it, next time, go Annual just for the season. Lots of beautiful vines out there to enjoy, Good luck.
Reply:I have a clematis growing in a similar situation and it does ok, it's called Clematis Nelly Moser (quite a popular variety). The plant is not as vigorous as one I have that grows in the open ground, but it still flowers reliably and looks good. In fact, growing it in a confined space will stop it getting huge and keep it a more manageable size (which may be what you want).





One thing to bear in mind: clematis has very shallow roots that must be shaded from the sun (or else the plant withers and dies); this would be especially important in a shallow flower box. Best solution is to put mulching around the base of the plant, or plant some ground cover plants at the base of the clematis.

Is there a difference between a white Clematis plant and a purple one?

I'v read recently that Clematis can improve mood and creativity and in the book it shows a white Clematis, but I happen to have a purple one. Is there a difference or can the purple be just as affective?

Is there a difference between a white Clematis plant and a purple one?
That's interesting...I assume they will all have the same effect. Mine all improve my mood because they are sooo pretty! I have blue, white, pink and purple ones! :)

Clematis?????

I've read that there are 3 types of Clematis, organized into their pruning requirements. The second type (I believe) is the type I have. (not sure exactly. it's a hybrid). These articles said to prune it to about 3 feet. Does that mean I cut all the vine down to its lowest 3 feet? I'm sorry this question is so sloppy, but I'm a newbie to gardening and clematis, so anything I missed or got wrong please correct with your answer. thanks to all.

Clematis?????
Hi there, and welcome to the addiction of clematis! Hehehe! You will soon find that once your clematis is doing well, you'll be looking for more clematis plants... (I stay in a townhouse, with a small garden, and I've got about 30 different varieties!)





Back to you Q: You should provide Clematis with the basics first...


1. They want to grow with their heads in the sun! (At least morning sun)


2. Their roots should be kept moist. Not soggy, so good drainage is important!


3. They like to be fed with a general fertilizer at least once a month during spring and summer, but stop feeding them once their flower buds are about 1cm long. This will prolong the flower display.


4.A lot of sources claim that Clematis wants their roots in the shade. This is only because shade allows the soil to retain more moister. (I stay in South Africa, and trust me, our summers are hot. Most of my plants grow in pots. The pots tend to get hot. The plants don't seem to mind this to must, as long as their roots are kept moist. They will soon complain! Hehehe!)





Now for the pruning: The best way to tell which of the 3 types your plant belong to, is to see when it flowers. The montanas are the most common Type 1 - No pruning, but you could tidy the plant a bit after flowering. Make sure the plant is at least a few years of age, and don't trim to much. They hate it!


Type 2 flowers Spring to early Summer, with 2nd flushes later in the summer.


Type 3 flowers later in Summer and early Autumn.





Don't get to hung up on type 2 and 3! Once most danger of frost is over, cut it right back to about 20cm. Make sure you cut just above a pair of plump buds.





The best advise I got was: get to know each plant. Their likes and dislikes, and they will reward you year after year with the most amazing flowers.





I hope this answers you question. Feel free to contact me for more info!





PS I'm no expert, but I do love clematis, and I spent a lot of time with my 'babies'! Hehehe!
Reply:You only have to prune it if you want to do so, but to prune to three feet means to trim it so it is 3 feet tall.





I just let mine grow how they want to, pruning is to encourage bushier growth in most instances. Mine do fine without trimming and I like them looking rangy.