Planting your clematis

Evergreen clematis need a sunny spot, whereas deciduous clematis can be happy in both sunny and part shaded positions. Most climbing clematis need their roots to be kept cool and moist so plant the base in light shade, or add pebbles or small plants at the base to provide shade.  If planting by a wall or fence – the hole should be dug approx. 30cm (12in) away from its base. If planting by a tree – plant about 2 feet (60cm) away from the trunk leaning the cane of the clematis towards the support. Make sure to provide climbing clematis with a trellis or support to attach to as it grows. 

Dig a planting hole 3 x wider than the roots of the shrub you’re planting and mix some well-rotted compost or manure with the soil from the hole and use this to re-fill once the clematis is in place.

Before planting, soak container-grown shrubs thoroughly and allow to drain and add Mycorrhizal fungi to the roots when planting to help plants establish quicker.

Plant with the crown of the plant 5-8cm deep to encourage new shoots to grow from below ground level.

Refill the hole with the earth removed (backfilling), then firm in the soil with your heel, avoiding the root ball and water in well.

Caring for your clematis

Feed in spring with a general-purpose feed, avoiding the stems. Mulch immediately afterwards with organic matter such as well-rotted manure, leaf mould or garden compost.

Make sure you water regularly during periods of dry weather in the first few seasons after planting, especially if your clematis is planted in a container.

Clematis in pots should be given a liquid feed through the summer and early autumn.

Choose Clematis with different flowering seasons to make sure your garden looks great through the early spring into late autumn.