Growing a Clematis

DYL

I have a damson tree that is pretty much dead in my garden and I was considering growing a clematis up the trunk. Can this be done effectively?

The trunk is probably around 10" across. 

Im guessing it may need some wire or twine around the tree to help it climb, but I'm not sure. Is is a silly idea?

Stevedaylilly

If you want to cover the tree because now it as eye sore, then I think possibly an ivy as its self clinging and will requires no support

Billie and Bessie

Here is my great way to deter slugs and snails- simply rinse your egg shells- important this bit or rats will be after them- pop on an old tin plate and bake in the bottom of the oven every time it is on. Cake bakers will be ahead of the game- they are crisp without any egg content and quickly mount up if done every week. Apply thickly around the plant.

Fairygirl

I've seen a montana used this way DYL, but you need to improve the soil well, plant it a reasonable distance from the tree, and water well till established to give it a reasonable chance. Montanas don't need pruning so it's an easier choice than the ones which do. You can just tidy bits now and again to suit. 

It's not something I care for because you still have the dead tree, but it would have a framework of branches covering it once it gets going  

Hostafan1

or maybe C. Bill Mackenzie ?

nutcutlet

I'd sort it out from the start. dead trees fall over eventually. 

Fell it, make a log pile to keep the wildlife happy 

Fairygirl

I should have said that the one I knew was on a living tree rather than a dead one...but I'm still not keen!  

Busy-Lizzie

I was going to say what nutcutlet said. Dead trees fall over, cut it down and plant the clematis up an obelisk instead.