Pronounced either way, it is a beauty. If you have found yourself thinking about new plants you want to add to your garden next season, you may want to consider the beautiful Clematis vine. Several varieties have been found to do well in our area and are readily available at nurseries in the spring. Their blooms range from saucer size to quite small. Colors are from snowy white to deepest purple. Here are a few tips to ensure your Clematis will be healthy and a wonderful addition to your garden.
Plant in rich, loose topsoil. Amend the soil if too sandy or if heavy or adobe soil. Gently remove the clematis root ball from the container and plant it in the hole so that the base of the plant is sunk 3" to 5" below soil level. Leave the original stake on the clematis for the first year to act as a support as well as a protection against accidental breakage.
Clematis enjoy being exposed to at least 5 to 6 hours of sunlight daily but they prefer their root area to be shaded. A rock strategically placed works well. Keep the root area well mulched with the mulch about 8" away from the stem to avoid stem rot.
Clematis needs regular watering. Always water thoroughly and deeply during the hot summer months. It will not dry out as quickly in a sunny area if the soil under your clematis is shaded. Don't keep them too wet, especially in the winter when they're dormant. Clematis is a heavy feeder. In spring, once the clematis buds are about 2 inches long, start feeding them every 4 to 6 weeks until the end of September.
Clematis needs support to grow. This can be achieved in many ways from growing them on an arbor or a trellis, onto other shrubs, or on a fence. They are beautiful growing among rose bushes and the bushes provide shade for the "feet" of the Clematis.
Clematis is susceptible to many fungi that can cause them to 'wilt' or turn black. These fungi enter the plant through the stem and work their way up. Although having your plant turn black is disappointing, it is usually not fatal if you planted correctly. Carefully cut off all of the diseased parts of the vine and then disinfect your clippers. Dispose of all these diseased parts in a sealed plastic bag.
Start searching through your garden books now for the Clematis you will plant next spring.
Mary Wilkerson, Smith County Master Gardener
Texas Cooperative Extension
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