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Clematis

Mrs GMrs G Posts: 336
in Problem solving

Hello All,

I have several different clematis in different areas of the garden, most of them growing up that small squared plastic mesh to hide fences etc.  What is the best way to cover the whole thing and increase flower number rather than have the plant race straight up the support?  Should I try and train stems horizontally to encourage side shoots to grow vertically like you would a rose?

 

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Posts

  • Pete.8Pete.8 Billericay, EssexPosts: 8,541

    Hello Mrs G
    Pruning depends on the type of clematis.
    If you know the variety names, then I'm sure forum members will be able to offer advice.
    Take a look here too on the RHS site-
    http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/profile.aspx?pid=109

    Good luck!

    Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit.
    Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad.
  • Mrs GMrs G Posts: 336

    Thanks Pete but it's not pruning I need to know about, it's training.  I know about the three pruning groups.  Thanks though. image

  • Lupin 1Lupin 1 Posts: 8,916

    Category refers to when you prune. I'd tie them where you want them. I weave mine in and out of the trellis. You could put a few wires / twine to encourage them to go where you want. Plus give them a tomato feed. image

  • Lupin 1Lupin 1 Posts: 8,916

    MrsG you don't have to be specific like roses, taking a lateral to form a main etc...just tie them where you want, it hasn't hurt mine. image

  • Mrs GMrs G Posts: 336

    Do you also pinch out the tips to encourage bushing at the base KEF?

  • StevedaylillyStevedaylilly Posts: 1,087

    Mrs G

    Hi 

    with clematis you can pinch out the buds withi 2 leaves . This encourages greater side shoots and a bushier plant. You can pinch out the shoots up till the end of may, then stop pinchoutbuildingoutbuilding

    i have done this with my clematis and have had great results

  • Mrs GMrs G Posts: 336

    Cheers Steve, good to know as I now have three group 1's and I'd like them to be thick from the base of the fences up rather than tall and skinny.

  • MrsGardenMrsGarden Posts: 3,951

    Thanks for posting this question Mrs G, I'm growing clematises for the first time this year so will follow Steve's advice, thanks steve also, and KEFimage

  • Mrs GMrs G Posts: 336

    You're welcome, I have 9 clematis so far!  

  • lillslills Posts: 4

    Hi I have no luck at all with clematis. I garden in a small back yard  which is part shade all day  and the other half is shady from late afternoon. Can anyone recommend any  suitable varieties please. 

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