Growing Clematis
Most experienced gardeners find clematis, also known as the "queen of climbers," to be a beautiful plant and a tremendous addition to any garden. This article will provide you with some of the simplest ways to reap all of the benefits clematis has to offer.
Clematis has become an incredibly popular perennial flower, meaning it should be very simple to find at any local garden center. The type of clematis you select should depend on your particular garden. Height, form, and color are all traits to consider when choosing your clematis.
To reach full potential, clematis needs a minimum of six hours of sunlight a day, so be sure to select a planting spot which will receive plenty of light. It will grow best in moist, well-drained soil that is neutral (or slightly alkaline) in pH levels.
The clematis' first year is its most difficult, so be careful when initially planting. The plant can be easily broken, but the chances for survival skyrocket after a successful first year. Place the plant in the soil deep enough that the bottom leaves are just below ground level. Mulching around the base of the plant will also help growth by supplying moisture.
Once your clematis has begun to consistently grow, you will want to support it with a pole, fence, branch, or fishing line of some sort. The plant naturally seeks something on which to climb, and a failure to provide that will result in stunted growth. Be sure the diameter of the support tool is no more than 1/2 inch, however.
Certain species of clematis require pruning, while others do not. The simplest way to tell is to leave the plant alone until mid-spring. Then, you will see which vines are dead and which are beginning to grow. Also around this time, place compost and organic fertilizer around your clematis to encourage growth. Repeat up to twice during the growing season.
