golden-bell clematis

The golden-bell clematis requires moderate water in order to grow and thrive. Water the plant deeply and thoroughly, and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings for best results. Water the plant once or twice per week during the spring and summer. Reduce the frequency of watering in the fall as the temperatures start to cool. In general, water the golden-bell clematis about once every 2 weeks in the wintertime. During periods of extreme cold or drought, increase or decrease the frequency of watering as needed.

Golden-bell Clematis prefers bright, indirect sunlight, with 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. To ensure this amount of sun exposure, it is best to plant this variety of Clematis in a location that receives full sun in the morning and then partial shade late in the afternoon. Avoid mid-day and late-afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorching and other damage.

Golden-bell clematis (Clematis tangutica subsp. obtusiuscula 'Gravetye Variety') should be pruned in late-March/early-April, just before the new growth begins appearing. In the first year, the plant should be pruned down to a few main stems, about 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in height, in order to encourage strong, healthy growth. In subsequent years, it's helpful to prune after the flowers have finished blooming, by cutting back the entire plant by 1-third. While more extensive pruning is possible, this should be done sparingly as it may result in fewer flowers.