How to Plant Clematis?

When to Plant Clematis?

Clematis can be planted throughout the year, but the most favourable periods are spring and autumn. In spring (March to May), temperatures begin to warm up, allowing young plants to establish strong roots before summer. In autumn (September to November), the soil is still warm enough to encourage rooting, while benefiting from natural rainfall. Avoid planting in the height of summer, as heat and lack of water can make it harder for young plants to establish, and in winter, as young roots may suffer from frost.

Where to plant a clematis?

Clematis is a demanding climbing plant that requires a carefully chosen location to thrive fully. It enjoys the sun, but its base must remain in the shade to prevent drying out. Ideally, plant it in full sun and shade the base of the plant by placing low-growing perennials or small shrubs around it. Some varieties, such as the clematis ‘Nelly Moser’, however, tolerate slightly shaded conditions, making them a good choice for partially sunny spots.

The soil should be rich, humus-rich, and well-drained. Adding compost or organic matter at planting time is recommended to ensure good nutrition. The soil should also remain cool without being too wet, as stagnant moisture can lead to diseases and encourage root rot. Additionally, choose a sheltered location away from strong winds, which can dry out the foliage and weaken the plant.

Clematis develop a deep root system, so they need loose and sufficiently deep soil. Avoid compacted or shallow soils, which hinder their growth. Before planting, work the soil well to loosen it and ensure it is neither too clayey nor too dry.

Compact clematis varieties adapt well to container growing, perfect for enhancing a terrace or balcony. Choose a container that is wide and deep enough, ideally with good drainage, and remember to keep the base of the plant shaded, even in a pot, to ensure optimal flowering and healthy growth.

Clematis ‘Dr Ruppel’

How to Plant a Clematis?

Start by choosing a sturdy support suitable for the growth of your clematis. It appreciates trellises, pergolas, fences, or even tree trunks and shrubs to cling to and climb. You can also pair it with another climbing plant to create a lush, verdant effect. Handle your clematis with care, as their roots and stems are delicate and break easily!

• Place the clematis root ball in a basin of water and let it soak for 10 to 15 minutes to hydrate it thoroughly before planting.
• Dig a planting hole at least 40 cm deep and wide to allow the roots to spread comfortably.
• Mix the removed soil with horticultural compost and add a handful of organic fertiliser to enrich the soil. This will give your clematis a good start and a nutrient-rich growing medium.
• Place a layer of gravel or small stones at the bottom of the hole to improve drainage. This is crucial to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to diseases and root rot.
• Return some of the soil and compost mixture to the hole, then place the clematis root ball slightly tilted towards its support. You can even lay it horizontally to encourage better branching. Ensure the base of the stems is buried about 10 cm deep, which will help protect the plant and promote new shoots.
• Add the remaining substrate to the hole, then gently firm it around the root ball to ensure good soil contact without damaging the roots.
• Water generously, directing the flow towards the soil to avoid splashing the leaves and base of the plant, which could encourage diseases.
• Guide the first stems towards their support to encourage them to attach from the start.

Tip: Plant low-growing perennials or apply mulch around the base to keep the roots shaded and retain moisture.

Also, check out our video tips for planting clematis!

⇒ To discover the different varieties and all our cultivation advice, visit our complete guide to clematis.

How to care for a clematis?

Continue to water regularly during the first year after planting, especially during dry spells, to help the clematis establish itself well. Once well-rooted, it will require less water and can do without watering, except during prolonged droughts.

Apply a mulch around the base of the clematis, ideally using pine bark, straw, or compost, to retain moisture and prevent the soil from drying out too quickly. You can also plant low-growing perennials or small shrubs nearby to naturally shade the base and protect the plant from direct sunlight.

Young clematis plants are often favoured by slugs and snails. To deter them, you can sprinkle wood ash, crushed eggshells, or wood chips around the plant. If these natural methods are not enough, consider using traps or slug barriers, ensuring to use products that are safe for other garden organisms.

Prune the clematis once a year to encourage flowering and maintain a beautiful shape. The pruning period depends on the variety: spring-flowering varieties should be pruned after flowering, while summer-flowering varieties should be pruned in late winter.

To promote abundant flowering, apply a potassium-rich fertiliser, such as a flowering plant fertiliser or well-rotted compost, in early spring. However, avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage growth at the expense of flowers.

With these simple care tips, your clematis will thrive and reward you with spectacular blooms year after year!