

Clematis are not a heavy vine. They grow through their host doing very little damage. Most varieties perform well in full or filtered sun. Although clematis prefer four or more hours of good light each day, they will grow in most locations, including a bright north wall. The pastel color hybrids have more intense blooms if grown in shadier locations. Clematis plants do not like their roots exposed to the sun. So this is when Companion gardening comes into effect. About one foot in front of clematis plant a ground covering flower. One suggestion is we planted a Jackmannii Clematis with yellow primrose in front, the colors were very vibrant and they grow hand in hand with each other. Primrose shades the roots which Clematis love. At the same time hold the moisture. Water clematis at root only, they tend to dislike the vine being directly watered. Also, the tend to grow better with non-chlorinated water. If you only have chlorinated water, fill watering can with water let sit in sun a hour or so the chlorine will evaporate. Fertilize organically by cultivating a quarter cup of bone meal around the root, make sure not to put directly on root.
Pruning applies to all clematis varieties. The first February or March all clematis should be cut back. At this time, you should be able to see leaf buds developing as your plant breaks dormancy. You should leave two sets of buds on each stem between where you make your cut and soil level. In subsequent years the following recommendations should be used Pruning should consist of cutting out weak or dead stems as soon as they are finished blooming in May or June. Pruning later than June or very severe pruning will result in fewer blooms the following spring.

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