Clematis

Plant deeply, with the top of the rootball 5-8 cm below the soil surface, to protect against clematis wilt. Choose a position where the roots are in cool, shaded soil but the top growth reaches the sun. Place a tile or stone over the root zone if planting against a sunny wall. Clematis montana thrives in most soils, including chalk, but avoid waterlogged ground. Provide a sturdy support structure such as wires, trellis, or a pergola. Water regularly during dry spells in the first two years. Feed in early spring with a high-potash fertiliser. Once established, Clematis montana needs very little care.

Clematis montana belongs to Pruning Group 1, which flowers on the previous year's wood. Prune immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer. Cut back overgrown or unwanted growth to keep within bounds. Hard renovation pruning is possible but will sacrifice a year's flowering. Do not prune in winter or you will remove the flower buds.