Clematis (S)
Clematis hybrids are hardy in zones 4-8. Clematis Florida Plena and Clematis florida sieboldii are hardy to zone 6. Clematis integrifolia is hardy to Zone 3.
Clematis prefers a soil rich in organic matter that is well drained yet retains moisture. Prefers full sun conditions, although some will tolerate part shade. Clematis use lots of water all season. Drought is the number one cause of transplant failure. Avoid planting under the eaves of buildings, as it is too dry. Dig the planting hole at least 1’ deep and wide. Fill the hole with compost-enriched soil and a handful of bonemeal. The crown of the plant should be at least 2" below the soil. The buried stems will produce roots and thus ensure the plants survival, even if the above ground stems are broken off. Mulch and water in well. You can fertilize with manure tea or a water-soluble fertilizer. Do not use fresh manure or fertilizers high in nitrogen. Keep the new plant well watered, but not soggy, until it is established. Keep it weeded and maintain mulch over the soil. Soil should be kept cool by shading with a planting of low growing, shallow rooted perennials. Clematis really starts to suffer if soil temperatures exceed 27°C (80°F). Clematis have twining tendrils that they use to grow up supports. You must provide a strong trellis, or wires, and tie them to the support initially, until they climb on their own. They can also be grown up a healthy, sturdy tree or large shrub.
Pruning Clematis - There are 3 groups:
Group 1: Includes Alpinas and Macropelatas. Pruning is not required, but they are often pruned after flowering to reduce size, or to encourage branching.
Group 2: This group flowers on the last season's wood in late spring, then smaller blossoms on new wood during the summer. In early spring, prune back dead wood until green wood is encountered in the stem. Leave all live wood. If some thinning is necessary on older plants, do so immediately after the early blooms are done. Varieties include Blue Light, Henry I, Violet Charm, Mrs. Norm Thompson, Nelly Moser, Duchess of Edinburg, Pink Champagne, Florida Sieboldi, Multi Blue, Niobe, Empress, Crystal Fountain, Florida Plena, Franziska Maria 'Evipo 'and Josephine 'Evojohil'.
Group 3: This group flowers during the summer on new wood only. These should be pruned 8" from the ground in very early spring. Varieties include: Bee's Jubilee, Jackmanii, Earnest Markham, Avant Garde, and Blue and Pink Fantasy.
