Types of Clematis
Location
Clematis require a site that will receive at least 6 hours of sun or more per day. This helps in bud and bloom production, and in lowering susceptibility to crown rot. Young Clematis are extremely susceptible to crown rot, which is a disease. Crown Rot can usually be prevented by planting the Clematis in well-drained soil.
The plants are also susceptible to any root disturbances. These can include animals digging around the roots, or growing in a low spot where water may collect. Plant the vine somewhat deep so that 2 of the buds are below ground level so that they will be preserved in case of dieback of the vine. Clematis also like to have a cool root zone. Place a layer of mulch (not exceeding 1½”) around the base of the plant or plant clematis by shrubs, perennials, or annuals that will shade the root system
Planting
- Dig a hole 15″ wide by 18″ deep
- Fill the hole with water several times to check for good drainage. Clematis do not like “wet feet”.
- Amend the soil with Sweet Peet. Create a 1:1 ratio of Sweet Peet and regular garden soil or topsoil.
- Heavy clay soil can benefit from sharp gravel being added to the mixture (or oyster shell poultry food)
- A pinch (1/8 cup) of 0-46-0 phosphate is also helpful to mix into the planting soil.
- Prune the plant back by half before planting.
- To encourage a vigorous crown, plant a Clematis at a 45-60 degree angle to the ground level about one inch deeer than the soil level in the pot.
- Water well.
Pruning

Group A
Early Flowering Clematis
Plants in this group bloom in early spring, generally in April and May, from buds produced the previous season. Prune these back as soon as possible after bloom but no later than the end of July. This allows time for new growth to produce flower buds for the next season. Remove shoots that have bloomed. Do not cut into woody trunks.

Group B
Large Flowered Hybrids
These bloom in mid-June on short stems from the previous season’s growth and often again in late summer on new growth. Prune in March by removing dead and weak stems, then cut back remaining stems to the topmost pair of large, plump green buds. This cut could be a few inches to a foot or two from the stem tips. Prune slowly from the top until you reach a good bud, one stem at a time

Group C
Late Flowering Clematis
Plants in this group should be cut back in early March to the first set of two strong buds on each stem which is usually 1-3’ above ground level. You basically want to cut right above the place where the new season’s growth begins. This will include removal of some good stems and buds but don’t worry, they’ll grow back!
Watering
Fertilizing
Clematis are heavy feeders. After the vine is established, use fertilizer recommended for flowering plants, such as Plant-tone or a time-release fertilizer. Clematis will also benefit from an annual top dress of rich compost.
Clematis Wilt
Growing Tips
- Choose a favorable planting site. Your site should receive about 6 hours of sun or more per day and be well-drained with a neutral pH.
- Select resistant plants. Small-flowered hybrids seem to be more resistant than large-flowering forms.
- To encourage a vigorous crown, plant a Clematis at a 60 degree angle to the ground level.
- Keep the area around your Clematis free of debris all year round.
- Take special care to avoid injury to the stem and roots.
- Do not cultivate near the roots of Clematis.
- Mulch the root system as they like to have their roots shaded.
- Remove diseased stems immediately. In the event that the plant becomes infected, cut the diseased stems just below ground level and destroy them.