Species clematis Guide
a blue flower with yellow filaments, yellow anthers and a yellow center

clematis

Clematis 'Will Goodwin'

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Cutting,Division,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Lavender blue with golden stamens Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Water clematis (Clematis 'Will Goodwin') plants deeply once every 7-10 days to keep the soil evenly moist. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Begin by providing 1 inch of water. As the plant becomes established, increase waterings up to 3-4 inches. If heavy rainfall is not an option, supplement watering with a low-pressure sprinkler or system of soaker hoses. Spread a 2-3 inch layer of wood chip or bark mulch around the base of your clematis to help retain moisture and reduce the need for regular watering. During periods of drought, you may need to increase your watering frequency.

sunlight

Clematis 'Will Goodwin' is a perennial climbing vine that prefers to grow in full sun for most of the day. For best blooming, this clematis should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day, preferably during the morning and early afternoon hours. However, too much sun exposure may cause the plant to wilt. It should be kept in an area that receives mostly full sun but with some afternoon shade.

pruning

When pruning a Clematis 'Will Goodwin' plant, it's important to get the timing right. Pruning should be done in late winter when the weather is still cold and before the new growth appears. The amount of pruning will differ depending on the age of the plant. Younger plants will usually require more pruning than older ones. For the first few years, cut back all of the stems to encourage a strong, dense framework of branches. Cut back each stem to a pair of healthy buds 8 to 10 inches from the ground. This encourages outward and upward growth. After the first few years, prune each stem to a pair of buds at least 2 feet from the ground. This will enable the plant’s branches to form strong, sturdy stems that will support heavy blooms. Prune the top of the plant more heavily to encourage a rounded shape. After the plant is established, start pruning it to contain its size and promote vigorous flowering. This can be done in late winter when the weather is still cold and before the new growth appears. Consider removing up to 1-third of the stems each year. This will remove some of the oldest, less productive stems and encourage the production of strong, new growth.

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.