clematis
Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki'
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Layering Propagation,Cutting,Division,Grafting Propagation
Hardiness Zone:
4 - 9
Flowers:
Violet-blue Flowers
Sun:
Full sun,part shade
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Care Level:
Medium
watering
To ensure your Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki' gets the best start, water regularly and deeply to keep the soil moist but not wet. During the first few weeks of growth, limit watering moderately to once per week. After the first bloom, water the plant more frequently, approximately 2 to 3 times per week, or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During the summer months, it may be necessary to water Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki' daily or multiple times per day, depending on the weather and soil conditions. When watering, it is best to water the soil around the plant and avoid getting the foliage wet.
sunlight
Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki' thrives in full sun and partial shade, though it needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight a day for optimum growth. It can tolerate deep shade but will grow fewer and fewer blooms in a shadier environment. In areas with high heat and intense sunlight, it is best to provide some afternoon shade. Additionally, late afternoon sun can focus the intensity of the sun on the blooms and reduce the vibrancy of the colors. To prevent plant scorching, morning sun is preferred. Regardless of how much sun your Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki' receives, it should be given weekly watering to ensure its light, well-draining soil remains moist.
pruning
For success in pruning your Clematis 'Belle of Taranaki', you should begin pruning in late winter when the plant is dormant. This will encourage regrowth and more plentiful blooms. You should first remove any dead or diseased stems and thin out any overly crowded growth. After this, you can reshape the plant by pruning back any long stems by a third. It is important to make sure that you leave 2 or 3 buds on each stem as this will promote plenty of blooms later on in the season. Finally, you can add a final trimming again in late spring to remove any dead foliage, deadheads, or any spent flowers. This will help the clematis shape nicely and keep it vibrant and healthy.
FAQ
Can Clematis plants grow in pots?
Yes, Clematis plants can definitely be grown in pots. When planting a Clematis in a pot make sure to use a larger size pot with drainage holes and fill it with a mix of well-draining potting soil and compost. Ensure to keep the root area cool and the pot in a sunny location while providing regular water and fertilization. Check the plant almost daily to make sure it is not becoming too dry. Clematis can do well in a pot and with the right care and conditions, they will thrive.
Are Clematis plants self-pollinating?
No, clematis plants are not self-pollinating. Clematis plants need pollinators such as bees, butterflies, moths and other insects to transfer pollen from the male anthers to the female stigma of the flower in order to produce viable seed. Pollination must also occur within relatively close proximity of the same species in order to create viable hybrid plants.
Can Clematis plants be grown as a houseplant?
Yes, Clematis plants can be grown as a houseplant. It is best to grow them in a pot with full sun and a soil that is rich in organic material and retains moisture. When potting the plant, place a stake or trellis next to the pot so that the vine can climb when it begins to grow. Be sure to water your Clematis plant regularly to keep it healthy and growing. Additionally, keep an eye out for pests and treat with natural insecticides as necessary.
Could Clematis plants survive in a colder climate?
Yes, Clematis plants can survive in colder climates with proper preparation. If planted in the fall, proper mulching should be done to protect the roots from cold temperatures. If planted in the spring, they should be watered frequently to help them adjust to the cooler temperatures more quickly. If temperatures drop below -20°C ( -4°F), additional measures may need to be taken such as the application of protective wraps and thermal insulation. Additionally, plants in exposed areas should be protected from the wind to prevent excessive dehydration. With the right measures in place, Clematis plants can easily survive in colder climates.
Could Clematis plants be grown in a greenhouse?
Yes, clematis plants can be grown in a greenhouse. Due to their vine-like growth habit and tropical native origins, clematis plants thrive in the moist and warm environment of a greenhouse. Clematis are generally grown from cuttings or from dividing existing plants, and benefit from regular pruning and fertilizing. They will also enjoy the indirect light of a greenhouse and the protection from strong winds and temperatures that the humidity and contained environment provides.
