clematis out growing obelisk

as007

Hey all My clematis is growing over the metal obelisk. What should I do? Can I trim the bits off which are over growing ? Many thanks

Fairygirl

If it's growing taller than your support, I'd poke a couple of canes carefully through that  so that it has an extra bit of height to climb up. Tie in the stray bits round the sides so that you don't lose flowers. Perhaps you need to invest in a bigger support for that clematis for next year and find a smaller clematis for the one you have just now 

as007

So I shouldn't just trim the stray bits? ????

darren636

Trimming might cut off the flowering .



Depends on the type.

as007

Hmmm ok

Fairygirl

How tall is the obelisk you have as007? Most clematis get up a fair height - around 6 to 8' (2m) at least, although it depends on type. Many are much bigger than that especially the early flowering montanas which need a big run.

as007

It's about 1100mm

It's was fine last year

Fairygirl

It's just grown to it's full potential as007. Young plants won't make their full size in the first year or two. You'll just need a bigger obelisk! 

On the plus side - it's obviously happy and healthy so you must be doing all the right things! 

as007

Yaaaay thanks fairy girl

I'll try cane first

Fairygirl

Do you know what variety it is? Should have asked you that at the start 

as007

It's about 1100mm

It's was fine last year