Moving clematise

norman1066ej

I have just planted a apple tree but have realized there is a clematise very close to it, should I move the clemetise if so when. 

Fairygirl

Hi @norman1066ej - a lot will depend on where you have the tree and clematis planted - ie in a border, or an area of grass etc, and also what variety of clematis you have.
You can certainly move the clematis though, but you need to make sure you get a decent amount of rootball with it, and somewhere to replant. Some are quite forgiving, so again, it will depend on the variety. You'd then need to keep an eye on it until it's re established.

Many people grow them together - trees make good supports for clematis to grow up. Some can be a bit vigorous though, so if you want to keep them together, you might need to prune the clem a bit more than normal until the tree is mature enough 

Obelixx

I think it all depends on what variety of clematis it is, how long it's been there and what type and size of apple you've just planted.

Inglezinho

I have not had good experience moving clematis. If you are going to do it, leave it till the spring, but if it is an early flowering type, you will probably lose the flowers in 2020. I would leave it where it is and let it do its thing in the apple tree. It's easier to prune an overvigorous plant than revive a dead one !

Stevedaylilly

I moved one a few weeks ago. 
I would first dig the hole it’s going into so it’s not out of the ground too long 
Take up all the root ball. Replant with copious amounts of compost or manure 
Cut back any foliage down to the ground 
Water in well
I've moved a few Clematis at this time of the year, both early and late flowering species with a lot of success with good regrowth in the following Spring 

Fairygirl

Never had a problem moving them - at any time of year here. 

@norman1066ej has never come back, so we might never know if he had a go 

Stevedaylilly

Quite true Fairygirl 🤔