Imagine your garden adorned with vibrant, violet-blue blooms, each a regal 6-8 inches across. That is the magic of Clematis. This vigorous vine isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a versatile landscape addition, gracefully climbing trellises, fences, or other shrubs. It’s a repeat bloomer, too, gracing you with its presence from May until the first frost, with a particularly stunning initial flush and then encore performances throughout the season.
The vines can grow 2 to 30 feet in height and come in an array of pretty hues from white to pink, lavender-blue to burgundy-red, and even violet and bi-colors.
Clematis are in the same family as flowers, such as aconites, anemones, Peonies, and Hellebores. This plant is found nearly everywhere, especially in the northern hemisphere.
Clematis Basics
Plant Type: Deciduous, perennial, flowering vine
Mature Size: 8-10 ft. tall
Sun Exposure: Full to partial sun
Soil Type: Well-drained loam
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Bloom Time: May-primary blooming period—until frost
Flower: Every color of the rainbow
Hardiness Zones: takes cold to -30 degrees
Native Area: North America, Central America, Europe, Asia
Where to Plant Clematis
Clematis likes full sun, which is considered 6+ or more hours of direct sunlight. However, it’s a little picky about exactly where it’s situated in your garden. It prefers its head in the sun and its feet in the shade, meaning its foliage should bask in the sunlight. In contrast, its roots should be shaded by another plant, mulch, or a flat stone to provide soil around its soil from sunburn.
Soil
Plant clematis in well-drained, loamy-rich garden soil. Watters Premium Mulch is an ideal soil amendment when planting Clematis in the landscape. Watters Potting Soil is perfect when planted in raised beds and large containers. The will thrived for years in these garden settings.
Water
Be sure to water when the soil is dry, but do not overwater. Clematis performs best when the soil around its roots is kept evenly moist.
Fertilizer
Feed this perennial bloomer twice monthly with Watters Flower Power to extend its bloom cycle. This encourages thick foliage and bright flowers.
How to Plant a Clematis
Clematis grow well in containers but require more attention than their relatives already in your garden. Plant in large pots; the extra soil will keep the roots protected. Plant directly in Watters Potting Soil for years of enjoyment. Attach or install a trellis to encourage fast vertical growth.
Whether you plant in the ground or a container, its stunning flowers and vigorous growth bring a touch of royalty to your garden. Remember the key ingredients: cool roots, consistent moisture, and a little love.
Clematis isn’t just beautiful; it is a pollinator magnet that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden. They are both deer and rabbit-resistant, yeah!
Until the next issue, I’ll be helping gardens plant the perfect Clematis here at Watters Garden Center.
Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 Iron Springs Rd in Prescott, or contacted through his website at WattersGardenCenter.com .
