How to grow Clematis

Clematis

For climbers, provide a sturdy support that the tiny stems can curl around.

Nearly all clematis like rich, loose, fast-draining soil with generous quantities of organic matter; add lime only if there’s a deficiency. They are forgiving of most soil types. Clematis are heavy feeders and don’t like to dry out or be constantly wet.

Don’t fertilize when the plant is about to bloom, as this can shorten the bloom period.

Clematis do well with companion plants that won’t crowd their roots underground; these provide shade over the root zone and act as mulch. Rocks used as mulch can cause baking in the sun.

Zone recommendations can vary with species/varieties. Remember that clematis in pots are less hardy than clematis in the ground.

Water requirements vary with species, but most like well draining soil with plenty of water.

Growing Clematis from seed

Can be grown from seed, but also from stem cuttings
Sow seeds in early spring into pots or modules in ordinary potting compost. Cover with vermiculite. Keep at room temperature for about two weeks and then cool in the fridge for about four weeks. Bring the pots back up to room temperature again and maintain until germination

Look to ensure a distance 1.48 feet (45.7 cm) between Clematis seeds when sowing to make sure your seedlings have enough space.

Transplanting Clematis

Head in the sun, feet in the shade. Mulch well after planting. It also helps to plant a ground cover around the base of a clematis to keep it cool.

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Clematis is a hardy plant.

How long does Clematis take to grow?

These estimates for how long Clematis takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

Days to Germination How long does it take Clematis to germinate?
21 days

Average 21 days | Min 13 days | Max 71 days (2)

Days to Transplant How long until I can plant out Clematis?
+ days

Average days | Min days | Max days (0)

Days to Maturity How long until Clematis is ready for harvest / bloom?
+ 69 days

Average 69 days | Min 8 days | Max 2215 days (12)

Total Growing Days How long does it take to grow Clematis?
= days

Clematis Folklore & Trivia

Clematis has many varieties, and it is said that it is possible to have at least one type of clematis in flower throughout the year. Some climb very quickly (montana) and some more slowly, and some are fragrant (montana) and others show extravagant flowers. Some hold their leaves all year and other are deciduous. There are even some clematis that can tolerate a shady situation. So to choose the variety for your garden it is a good idea to have in mind what is required (or not required!) from your plant.

Other names for Clematis

Misspellings: Ruutez, Clemetis

Footnotes

1 http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/poison-control/Plants/clematis.aspx


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