After moving into our new house from a townhouse, our neighbor introduced us into the exciting new world of “clematis” flowers. These flowers are wonderful climbing plants; there are a few exceptions which is a perennial and one that is a bush. Besides the wonderful vibrant colored flowers (usually periwinkle) this variety of plant blooms constantly from early spring to late fall. It is a fantastic feast to the eyes in a garden.
Clematis perennial plants will grow to around a few inches to thirty feet in height for climbing plants. If trying to find a plant to cover the unsightly garages or to hide that ugly silver chained fence in the backyard, this is the solution. Some other choices that are perfect to have clematis cover are trellises, lattices, arches, and even gates. Since this type of climber can grow to great heights over the years, it does not require hard pruning.
Although there are many varieties, clematis can generally be grown in zones four to eleven. Depending on the variety that can be grown in your zone, the blooming flowers range from around one inch to around ten inches. Most plants will produce one bloom however there are a few varieties that will do both single and double blooms. If your plant is the latter, then the double flower will bloom in the spring then a single flower will bloom the rest of the season. Since the blooms are a very strong color, it is recommended to plant each flower in a partly shading location to contain the vibrant color. The plant will survive in full sun however the colors may fade or even change color throughout the season. Similar to a violet plant, clematis will have a fragrant scent that can welcome guests into the garden, not all are fragrant though so double check before purchasing. The two plants that have the most powerful fragrance are the Fair Rosamund and C. armandii cultivars.
For most regions, it is best to plant new clematis in the fall season. Since roots will grow during the fall and collect the most nutrients, this is the best time. In addition, the plant will bloom in the spring if planted in the fall, if planted in the spring, the plant not bloom the whole summer. After digging the hole for the housing of the new plant, please remember to cover the bottom of the hole with rich compost and a little bone meal before placing a thin layer of topsoil on the bottom of the hole. Clematis prefers a regular feeding; therefore starting the plant off on the right foot will assure success. Then, place the plant inside the hole. Pruning is an important part of the success of the plant. Since each plant variety varies drastically though, refer to the information given for each cultivar about pruning. Just remember that all plants are dormant in the spring, therefore it is always best to cut back the plant around March to make sure you do not cut off any new buds.
As for predators, it is wise to remember to wash the plant a few times each season to make sure that there is no mildew or fungus that has grown on the plant. General insecticide soap will work great on this type of plant and is much safer than a chemical. Earwigs and slugs can also be a problem to clematis plants. The best solution for these pests is a good pesticide or special traps.
All in all, clematis is the perfect solution for those unsightly sections of the garden that need a little sprucing up to match the rest of the garden. There are many different plant varieties therefore yellow, blue, white or et cetera are available to help blend in any part of the garden that needs assistance. Try out the attached links for more information on the plants that are available for these plants.
