Clematis Montana

MrsFoxglove

Evening all, 

I recently bought a clematis Montana (about a month ago) and have it climbing up some trellis.

It seems to have taken off nicely which I'm pleased about, however I just wondered exactly how "vigorous" are these plants and how long will it take to get really abundant? 

I bought another Montana variety today- just couldn't help myself- and I was wondering if I could use my Laurel tree as its host?

I don't particularly like the Laurel tree so would be thrilled if the Clematis smothered it. 

Would I need to plant 2/3 at the base of the tree in order for this to happen? 

Has anyone got a clematis covered tree? 

Thanks kindly x

fidgetbones

I have one clematis montana that climbs to the top of a hawthorn tree that doesn't get pruned. Its about the height of a house.

Obelixx

Depends on the variety.  Elizabeth and Rubens Superba easily get to 10m.  Broughton Star 7m.

You may well have bitten off more than you can chew but certainly better to have a laurel covered in clem than just green and boring.   Make sure you plant it at the edge of the laurel canopy so it gets light and rain and give ita  good deep hole back-filled with good quality soil and compost.   Water well.

Fairygirl

They can take a couple of years to establish - depending on how mature a plant you've bought - and then they make a bid for world domination....

If you don't prune the laurel (and that will be tricky once it has a montana growing up it)  - it will also bid for world domination....

MrsFoxglove

Oh brilliant! 

I bought a Broughton Star today and have an Elizabeth growing up the trellis. 

I actually detest tge Laurel tree, which needs a good old prune! 

Thanks for the advice gang