Clematis ' are a gorgeous climbing flora thatboasts beautiful blossomsin an array of unlike color — but without a proper pruning regime , the industrial plant might end up with a barren base and flowers situated way above eye level .

Pruning clematis can seem daunting , especially when there arenumerous varietiesand pruning recommendations , but grok a few key principles can endow you to clip your clematis effectively . Encourage rich increment while bear on the desired shape .

Identify The Type

Which clematis do you have?

Before diving into pruning , it ’s of the essence to recognize which radical your clematis come down into . By noting when your clematis blooms and the development upon which these efflorescence come along , you may confidently categorize your plant and ensure it get thecorrect pruning method acting . One of the easy way to determine the type of your clematis is by watch over its flower season and habits :

If you ’re unsure about your clematis case due to a wanting label or because you do n’t live its specific variety , ward off trim clematisthat bloom on last yr ’s growth . For clematis that flower on the current class ’s increase , it ’s good to give them a hard prune .

Laying the Foundation for a Healthy Plant

Grab your pruners

All clematis should undergo an initial pruning to 12 inches over the land when first planted — while this may seem counterintuitive , it ensure a robust and prosper plant in the future .

Special Mention: Herbaceous Clematis Types

Something different

Herbaceous clematis type do n’t climb and undergoes a full die - back to the ground level each twelvemonth , regenerating entirely from its foot , so its pruning agenda is a shade unlike :

Essential Tools

Start your pruners

1. Pruning Group 1 (A)

Early-flowering and evergreen clematis

Cultivars : Clematis alpinaAGM , C. cirrhosa , C. macropetala , C. montana .

When to rationalize : Right after they bloom .

This mathematical group only require a light pruning , typically only if they ’ve flourish beyond their designated space . If you take to boil down their size , do it bit by bit over multiple seasons to avoid blow out of the water the plant .

Gardener watering tomatoes in the vegetable patch

2. Pruning Group 2 (B)

Maintaining vibrant, early-summer blossoms

Species:‘Beauty of Worcester , ' ' Edith , ' ' Royal Velvet , ' ' Barbara Jackman , ' ' bee ' Jubilee . '

When to prune : start out the process in February . It may be good to prune every third class to void tangled old growth .

3. Pruning Group 3 (C)

Promoting vigorous growth and late blossoms

Species : ' Duchess of Albany,‘‘‘Polish Spirit AGM,‘‘Gravetye Beauty , ' ' Alionushka AGM . ' ,

When to prune : Typically in February .

Pruning clematis might ab initio seem complex due to the plethora of varieties and tailored recommendation , but with a grounded apprehension of the basic rationale , one can master the art . When you figure out what which typewrite your clematis is and apply the right pruning methods , your plant will stay healthy , lively , and adorned with sensational blossoms .

The three sisters growing in a garden

No matter if you ’re crop with the other bloomers or those hearty later - flower type , keep in mind that regular trim not only spruce up its look but also boost its overall wellbeing . fit with the right knowledge , tools , and technique , gardeners can confidently raise their clematis to render an enchanting showing yr after year .

Spreading mulch in the garden

pruning clematis

sweet autumn clematis

clematis

clematis flower blooms

pruners

pink blossoms montana clematis - group 1

bees jubilee clematis - group 2

purple polish spirit clematis - group 3