It's got to go!

Lizzie27

I've got to dig up my lovely clematis 'Blue Ice' by Tuesday because the fence chap is actually starting work at last. He's going to replace the corroded concrete spur (which is why I planted the clematis in front of it originally). I'm steeling myself to cut it down to a couple of inches before I dig it up in the hope that I can get enough root out for it to survive - what are my chances do you think? 

B3

I dug a big clematis out. Watered it first. Got as big a root ball as i could and stuck it in a binbag. When the post was in, I dug a hole, put some fertiliser and a bucket of water in the hole and replaced the clematis. I don't think it even noticed!

Lizzie27

That's so encouraging to hear @B3. I'm planning to plant it in a better location - if I can find a space for it.

Obelixx

It's tiny.  Soak the roots an hour in advance and then dig out as much root as you can with a decent spade and then either plant it in a new place or put it in a 60cm pot with good compost below and around and bury it a bit deeper too.  Water well, keep it out of full sun till it's over the trauma and then enjoy.

Busy-Lizzie

I don't think you even need to cut it down if you do as B3 and Obelixx advise.

Lizzie27

You wouldn't think it was at least 6 or 7 years old, would you? it's always struggled - my fault, right plant, wrong place - I wanted to see something at my eye level from the kitchen window. Under the fence there's a 4 ft wall/drop on the other side. Thanks for all the advice folks.