Clematis

With hundreds of varieties making clematis the most popular of climbers, there is always one to suit your own personal tastes and desires. These lovely twining plants are ideal for covering fences, arches and walls. You can find clematis perfect for pots, and even some that grow into sturdy trees. Throw in the fact that they come in all colours under the rainbow and you've got yourself a perfect climber for any situation.

Features:

It's hard to pinpoint any specific features of clematis, because with over 200 different species, and countless numbers of hybrids, this is by far the most popular, and diverse, climber around.

Planting Time:

Collect and sow clematis seeds in the fall and sow them immediately. Over the winter months you should stratify and they will germinate in early spring.

Flowering Time:

Depending on the variety you choose, clematis will bloom anywhere from early spring to end of fall. There are even a few winter-blooming varieties. Ask at your local nursery for a variety that suits your needs.

Growing Conditions:

Grow clematis in well-drained soil, rich in humus. Although they prefer to grow in full sun, you'll get results if you protect the roots with shade. Do this with other low-lying plants and growth. You can't have enough mulch and organic materials for these climbers.

After Flowering:

For early-blooming clematis (group 1), after flowering it's good practice to thin areas that have become overgrown. For large flowered hybrids (group 2), prune the shoots in late winter or early spring. Finally, late blooming clematis (group 3) should be pruned in late winter, or early spring down to within 12 inches of the ground.