Buying Clematis from nurseries and how to plant Clematis in their best growing position

Before you rush to purchase any clematis flowers, you have to consider the conditions that you have in your home and whether there will be suitable for clematis growth. Ask yourself the following questions before purchasing.

1. when will the plant flower?

Clematis flowering time depends on the species or variety. There are spring-flowering, early-summer-flowering and summer-flowering clematis.

2. How tall do you wish your clematis to grow?

Herbaceous perennial clematis grow to heights of about 1m only while the majority of clematis grow and reach heights of about 3m or more. Slow-growing types are available and they are ideal for propagating in large containers.

Rapid growing clematis can be grown up to 10m tall and theses include Clematis vitalba and Clematis Montana.

Plant Nurseries and garden centers

Plant nurseries usually stock a wide variety of clematis varieties that are healthy and ready to be taken home. Mail order companies are much more reliable when it comes to supplying rare varieties.

The right position

Clematis require light, heat, soil consistency and moisture all affect the growth of clematis. Clematis flourish in the semi-shade of forest edges and in positions with bright to semi-shady light. Do not place the clematis on south-facing positions because they receive extensive heat.

The clematis should be planted in the nutrient rich soil which is porous and permeable. Select a position that is relatively easy to irrigate in the summer because clematis need a lot of water. Make sure that the plant does not become water logged.

Planting clematis

The ideal times to plant clematis are autumn and spring. Clematis can also be planted all year round. They need to be planted in soil that is not frozen or too dry.

Planting outside

Clematis plants are rapid growers and they develop an extensive root system. They need plenty of nutrients and water. When digging the planting hole make sure that it is large enough and must be at least 40cm wide and deep. If the sol is of high quality, then its ok to have a smaller hole then this.

Preparing the soil and the plant

The soil at the bottom of the hole must be loosened. The drainage of the hole can be enhanced by inserting a layer of gravel on the floor of the hole.

  • Add in high quality garden soil mixed with garden compost or cattle dung and well moistened peat.

  • Add two handfuls of organic compound fertilizer as a controlled release fertilizer

  • Irrigate the root stock vigorously be allowing the pot to stand in a container of water for10-20 minutes.