Clematis, often called the ‘Queen of Climbers’, is an absolute must-have for your garden! From romantic pastels to deep, velvety hues, these stars of the plant world bring colour, structure, and wow-factor to fences, walls, arches, and trellises. With varieties like Margaret Hunt, Hagley Hybrid, Rouge Cardinal, Star of India, and Nelly Moser, you’ll be spoilt for choice—and with prices starting at just £7, why stop at one?
Plant them in well-drained, fertile soil, keeping their roots shaded and their tops sun-kissed. Most clematis prefer a south, southeast, or southwest-facing spot, but pale bloomers like Miss Bateman and Nelly Moser enjoy a bit of light shade to protect their delicate colours.
For best results, use a John Innes No. 3 compost or multi-purpose compost mixed with grit for drainage. Add a generous handful of slow-release fertiliser or well-rotted manure when planting, and mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist.
Pruning might sound scary, but once you know your clematis group, it’s a breeze. Most just need a spring tidy. Use soft twine or plant clips to gently guide them up trellises, obelisks, or pergolas. For shaping and deadheading, a pair of sharp secateurs is essential.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just getting started, clematis are an easy way to add dramatic flair and seasonal magic to any space.
Mini Guide to Pruning Clematis by Flower Group
Group 1 – Early-flowering (e.g. Clematis montana)
Prune after flowering. Just a light tidy to remove dead or damaged stems. Don’t cut back too hard, or you’ll lose next year’s blooms.
Group 2 – Large-flowered hybrids (e.g. Hagley Hybrid, Miss Bateman)
Prune in late winter or early spring. Remove dead/damaged stems and trim back to healthy buds. Optional: Thin out older growth for better shape.
Group 3 – Late-flowering (e.g. Rouge Cardinal, Star of India)
Prune hard in late winter or early spring. Cut all stems back to about 30–45 cm (1–1.5 ft) from the base for a strong, flower-packed summer display.
Quick Tools & Supplies Checklist:
John Innes No. 3 compost or multi-purpose compost with grit
Slow-release fertiliser or well-rotted manure
Mulch (bark, compost, or gravel)
Soft garden twine or plant clips
Sharp secateurs
Trellis, arch, or obelisk for support
Happy climbing and happy pruning - your garden will thank you with a wall of blooms!
