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.