Abundance duo - Clematis Perle d'Azur and Rose Excelsa

For the rose:

Plant the climbing rose 'Excelsa' in ordinary, well-loosened, and drained soil. Roses prefer clayey soils, rather heavy than light. In too sandy, compact, or dry soil in summer, it is preferable to bury decomposed manure, or compost at the bottom of the planting hole. However, this rose dreads waterlogged soils in winter. Install it about 20 cm (8in) from its support in a sunny position, at most in partial shade in the morning sun. Roses are demanding plants, specific fertilizer application will be beneficial at the start of vegetation, and regularly throughout the flowering period.

For the Clematis:

The 'Perle d'Azur' Clematis will appreciate a sunny or lightly shaded position near a tree. Plant it in rather fertile soil, enriched with leaf compost, especially well-drained, shading the roots and the base of the stem (with a flat tile, for example). Generally, the Clematis withers in overly moist soil, but varieties derived from C. viticella seem less sensitive and are generally very easy to grow in ordinary, well-loosened soil. Install it by covering the slanted root ball with 3 cm (1in) of soil, in soil worked to a depth of 20 cm (8in), lightened with good compost and coarse sand. After planting, cut back the Clematis stems to about 30 cm (12in) from the base above a nice pair of buds. Water regularly during the first few weeks. However, be careful not to let water stagnate as it can cause fungus development at the neck. Mulch all Clematis in February with garden compost or well-decomposed manure, avoiding direct contact with the stems. Train the stems without squeezing them until the plant can grip itself.

After a few years, cover the base of your climbing Clematis with a small mound of soil, to reduce the risk of withering while promoting the growth of vigorous shoots from the stump.

To save space, you can perfectly plant your Clematis and climbing rose in the same hole: dig a pit at least 70 cm (28in) wide and 50 cm (20in) deep. Fill it with a mixture of garden soil and compost. Remember to choose a location where the base of the plants will be shaded, primarily to meet the needs of the Clematis.