Want big clematis flowers that last? The secret is simple: give the roots cool, the top plenty of light, and prune the right way. Follow these practical steps and your clematis will reward you with more blooms and fewer headaches.
Pick a spot with at least six hours of sun for the top of the plant, and some shade over the roots. Plant the crown about 5 cm (2 in) below soil level — that encourages new shoots. Space plants 60–100 cm (2–3 ft) apart so air moves around them.
Use well-draining soil, mixed with compost. Add a 5–8 cm (2–3 in) mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Water deeply once or twice a week in dry weather; aim for about 1 inch of water weekly rather than light surface watering.
Give your clematis a support: a trellis, obelisk, or wire tied to a fence. Fastening stems gently with soft ties keeps them tidy and prevents wind damage.
Feed in spring with a balanced fertilizer (for example 10-10-10) or a formula labeled for flowering shrubs. Repeat every 6–8 weeks during the growing season. Stop heavy feeding late in the season to let the plant harden off.
Pruning depends on the clematis type. Remember three groups: Group 1 blooms on old wood, so prune only lightly after flowering. Group 2 blooms on both old and new wood; remove weak stems in spring and trim lightly after the first flush. Group 3 blooms on new wood; cut back to about 30 cm (12 in) above ground in late winter or early spring to encourage strong new growth.
Watch for clematis wilt: sudden blackened stems. If you see wilted sections, cut them back to healthy tissue and burn or discard the affected pieces. Aphids and slugs can be an issue—use targeted controls like insecticidal soap for aphids and beer traps or iron phosphate baits for slugs.
Want to multiply your plants? Layering is the easiest method: bend a flexible stem to the soil, peg it down, cover with soil, and wait for roots to form. Softwood cuttings taken in early summer also root well in a soilless mix under mist or a clear cover.
Combine clematis with low-growing companions that shade the roots—lavender, geraniums, or groundcover grasses work well. That keeps the base cool without shading the top blooms.
Give your clematis steady care: good planting, regular water, seasonal feeding, and the right pruning. Do that and you'll see bigger, more reliable blooms year after year.
