Garden Decor - Naturalizing with Clematis

Clematis are flowering vines that come in a variety of color and shapes. They are in the same family as anemones, buttercups and peonies. They are naturalized for cooler climates such as in the northern hemispheres. Some sources of information show over 3100 different varieties of clematis. They are perfect for naturalizing your garden décor because of their growing capabilities and wide range of species.

Almost all clematis grow well on walls, fences and trellis. The most important factors in determining how to support their growth are the height, the strength of growth of the individual species and the area you want to cover with the clematis. They do not need strong support as they may grow on something as light weight as plastic netting. The varieties of clematis are grouped according to when flowering occurs in the season. If your goal is to achieve color all season long, this factor should be considered when choosing the right species for your garden decor. If you attempting to naturalize a patio space with clematis, this can be done with a variety that grows well in containers.

Clematis can be planted year round provided there is moisture in the soil, however the best time is late fall or mid spring. They prefer cool moist area and need room for the roots to expand. They need ample watering and balanced feeding. The ground should be prepared by digging a hole eighteen inches deep by eighteen inches wide. The whole should be covered with rich compost or manure. Bone meal is a slow release organic fertilizer rich in phosphorus which will help encourage new growth and spectacular color in the flowers. It should be placed in the bottom of the whole. Add enough top soil to cover the compost and bone meal. Make sure your clematis is well watered before placing in the ground. At least 6 inches of stem should be below the soil line. The stem of your clematis needs to be ripe before you bury it. If there is any question as to weather or not the stem is ripe, leave the final addition of top soil until later in the season. If the clematis is being planted in front of a wall, space 18 inches from the wall. The stem of the clematis needs to be carefully but securely attached to the trellis or growing device to prevent damage to the stem. Failure to do minimal lawn and garden décor preparation, may cause damage to the stems making them vulnerable to attack by fungi.

Planting a small shrub near the base of the clematis will help ensure added moisture and a cool place for the roots to grow. Roses are ideal plants to support clematis as their cultivation needs are similar and their growth needs are very similar. A few suggestions of plants to put at the base of the clematis are hydrangea or lilac. A few suggestions for trees to plant are holly, pine and yew. Hosta are also a great choice due to shallow roots. You do not want the roots competing for water.

Pruning of clematis to beautify your garden decor is important to promote new growth. The pruning needs is dependant upon which group the clematis is in and the groups are determined by bloom time. The first group blooms early spring and contains some of the most vigorous type. When used to cover large areas such as walls or fences, no pruning is required. However, if space is limited, some pruning may be necessary. If pruning is to be done, it should be done as soon as blooming in May or June is finished. Prune selected stems back to their base only to control size. Avoid cutting the main trunk. The second group contains the early and mid season large flowered hybrids which usually begin flowering before the end of June. No actual pruning is required, but removal of dead tips from each stem in late February or march will help keep the plant looking neater and healthier. A severe pruning of clematis in this group will decrease flowering next year, but is not harmful to the plant. However, if the plant has been neglected for many years, a severe pruning will result in new growth. The third group are the late bloomers. If left alone, they too will bloom but will become bare at the base and all the flowers will be at the top of the plant. Plants should be cut back in late February or March to two strong sets of buds approximately. 12 inches from ground level cutting just above an old leaf joint.

The biggest threat to clematis as far as diseases and pests include fungus, mildew, earwigs and slugs. The best line of defense for preventing fungus attack is making sure the clematis is securely attached to the trellis or the growing device (fence, plastic netting etc.). However, clematis wilt can occur at any time and usually happens about the time the flower begins to open. If this occurs, it is important to remove and destroy the affected stems. Cut one inch below where the stem appears infected. Mildew can occur late in the season and is controlled by fungicides. Good air circulation will prevent this problem from occurring. The most common pest problems are earwigs and slugs. Slug bait early in the spring gives best results. Pesticides and traps work well for control of earwigs.

In conclusion, clematis are a very beautiful and hardy flowering vine indigenous to the colder climate and perfect for naturalizing your garden decor. If planted correctly and with proper support, they will provide months of beauty to your garden. There are many varieties to choose from but require a few special growing needs that need to be incorporated for successful growth. Adherence to their needs will provide spectacular results.