Clematis is a beautiful deciduous vine which makes a wonderful addition to virtually any landscape or yard. It is excellent for training on a trellis, fence, porch railing or post. Clematis is particularly effective when used with climbing roses or scrambling through shrub roses or other deciduous shrubs. This vine is also equally handsome when allowed to cover a tree stump or trail on the ground, edging a walkway or path.
When training up an object, Clematis may need initial support, since it supports itself by twining around an object, rather than clinging to it such as ivy does. It prefers an evenly moist, well drained rich soil that is slightly alkaline. Ample moisture in the summer & autumn is particularly important. The foliage and flowers prefer a sunny location while the roots need a cool shaded spot. This shading is best accomplished by planting around the base of the vine a perennial, annual or ground cover, but do not use mulch. Do not worry about our Carroll County winters -- Clematis is generally very cold tolerant.
With over seventy different species of Clematis that are commercially available, selection of a vine can be overwhelming and at times confusing. That is why it is important to have either someone experienced in growing Clematis or a good reference guide to help you in the selection.
In general, there are three categories or groupings of Clematis. The first group is the early blooming type that is best represented by the lovely Montana Rubens Clematis, which is vigorous and easy to grow, achieving a height of over 30 feet.
The second group includes many of the most spectacular and longest blooming of all Clematis. These are usually midseason type bloomers that typically grow to a manageable 8 to 12 feet tall with an added benefit of a rebloom later in the summer. There are several worthy and outstanding choices in this group including many double flowering forms and a large variety of colors and patterns.
The third group contains the latest blooming varieties that make one spectacular display, such as the Sweet Autumn Clematis. This particular Clematis covers itself with small white deliciously scented flowers in the fall, followed by unusual feathery seed pods. This is by far the easiest Clematis to grow and it will thrive in virtually full shade.
One Clematis that we at Carroll Gardens have found particularly rewarding and unfortunately not commonly found is "Elsa Spath". "Elsa Spath" is a very easy to grow vine with overlapping petals of lavender blue. The large flowers (7 to 9 inches) are highlighted with dark red anthers and white filaments. This variety is free blooming and easy to grow, attaining a height of 8 to 12 feet. It would best be categorized as a group 2 or 3 Clematis because of its long bloom period and its forgiving nature in regard to care.
Add these rewarding vines to your garden this year and, like many, don't limit yourself to just one. With some careful planning you can create a long blooming display of Clematis for virtually the entire summer. Feel free to contact us at Carroll Gardens in regards to any Clematis you may be looking for. With over 70 species of Clematis in stock, we should be more than able to meet your needs.
The Carroll Gardens catalog is a comprehensive guide for many garden plants, especially for anyone interested in Clematis. It provides concise information on cultural requirements and plant descriptions that surpass or rival many gardening publications. The catalog is available for a nominal charge of $3.00, that is refundable with your first order. Our phone number is 1-800-638-6334 or FAX 1-410-857-4112.
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