Clematis Care and Growing Tips: Learn from Clematis Expert, Deborah Hardwick

Deborah Debunks A Few Clematis Myths

To wet your Clematis appetite, here's a little taste of Deborah's lecture on the

"Myths and Truths About Clematis."

• Myth #
  1

  They are difficult to grow.

  Clematis are fairly easy to grow when planted correctly and when they receive adequate water during the growing season.

  
• Myth #
  2

  Plants must have their "feet in the shade" to keep their roots cool.

  There's no need to protect Clematis roots from the sun. In fact, growing smaller plants nearby in an effort to shade the roots can hurt Clematis plants by keeping them from getting the nitrogen and other nutrients needed to thrive.

  
• Myth #
  3

  Pruning can harm your Clematis

  Pruning actually promotes Clematis performance. When and how to prune, depends on the type of Clematis. Pruning is a garden style, not a requirement for Clematis. To learn more about pruning Clematis, visit our EZ Pruning Guide.

  
• Myth #
  4

  Plants have a short flowering time.

  In many cases, you control the flowering time. Really. Deadheading, pruning and adequate watering extend the bloom season. You can also plant multiple Clematis varieties with different bloom times to enjoy a longer season of flowering.

  
• Myth #
  5

  Clematis need full sun and have special soil requirements.

  Clematis are very adaptable. They can thrive when receiving sunlight levels ranging from full sun to partial shade, and they tolerate many soil types and pH levels.

  

Deborah Hardwick Lecture Series

Deborah's past lecture topics include:

• Myths and Truths about Clematis
• The Beautifully Diverse Genus
• The Virtuous Viorna: An In-Depth Look at Native American Clematis
• The Best Clematis for your Garden.

Previous engagements include: Ontario Rock Garden and Hardy Plant Society, Royal Botanical Gardens (Toronto), Hamilton Botanical Gardens, Toronto Gardens, Indianapolis Art Museum, International Clematis Conference (Orleans, France)