Would it be harmful to an apple tree to plant a Montana clematis to grow over it?

carolwashnot

Would it be harmful to an apple tree to plant a Montana clematis to grow over it?

AnniD

I think it would have to be a pretty big tree to be honest. 

Papi Jo

I frankly don't see the point.

philippasmith2

Given the tendency for C Montana to be a strong growing plant, I wouldn't advise it.
Depends on how old/well established your Apple is  and how much clear ground you have around the base as to whether you could choose a less aggressive climber ?
Planted close together, there will be competition for water and nutrients.
You have more options if you just wish to use the Apple tree as a support rather than making use of any fruit.

Dovefromabove

I’ve seen it done successfully with a very large venerable old apple tree that is past its best days and no longer producing worthwhile fruit 

I wouldn’t do it to a healthy productive tree. 

micearguers

I had a Clematis rehderiana growing through quite a beast of a Bramley apple tree. It just becomes a tangle and quite unsightly except for a few months. When it's not unsightly it affects the health of the tree by introducing congestion and reducing air circulation - I took it out.

pansyface

And think of the weight of all that Clematis. It would end up pushing the apple boughs downward. In winter it would look like Arthur Scargill’s barnet.