Growing Clematis

Clematis are a beautiful plant to grow in your garden. They are an easy to grow flowering vine that is not too aggressive. With proper site selection and a little care, you will be treated to beautiful summer flowers for years to come.

WHERE TO PLANT
Clematis needs a location with at least 5 or 6 hours of sunlight. Clematis roots are deep, and like it cool and damp. Plant groundcover around the roots or select the shady side of a wall or fence where vines can climb into the sunlight.

HOW TO PLANT
Loosen soil where you are going to plant and add cotton bol compost to the soil. Place crown at soil level. Provide support with a fence, trellis, pole or similar structure. Always handle with care. Clematis stems are extremely fragile!

CARE AFTER PLANTING
Water freely the first year. In subsequent years soak well once a week in dry weather. Mulch to retain moisture in summer. Also, mulch in winter to prevent the roots from freezing.

FERTILIZING
Feed twice a year with a balanced granular fertilizer, or a good water-soluble fertilizer that will get to the plant much quicker.

PRUNING
Prune the first spring after planting to 6-12 inches from the ground. This is very important to get the Clematis vine off to a low branching and heavily flowering form. Shoot tips may be pinched
during late spring to induce additional branching.