What should the location be like?
The majestic Clematis montana prefers a location where its head is lit by the sun, while the roots are shaded. In addition, these conditions are beneficial for a clematis:
- Humous soil, rich in nutrients
- Fresh, moist and well drained
- Gladly a pH value of 5.5 to 6.0
also read
- How to cut clematis montana correctly - this is how it works
- How to properly prune clematis montana 'Rubens'
- How high does the clematis grow? - Clematis growth overview
Which water and nutrient balance is beneficial?
The water and nutrient requirements of a Clematis montana increase in proportion to the leaf mass and abundance of flowers. Therefore check every 1 to 2 days with a thumb test whether the soil has dried up. Always water the clematis directly on the root area, because sprinkling the foliage could attract fungal spores.
Like every clematis, the Clematis montana primarily requires potassium. Only behind this is the need for nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements. So fertilize the climbing plant every 6 to 8 weeks with a special preparation for clematis. Alternatively, fertilize organically every 8 to 14 days with potassium-rich comfrey manure, compost and horn shavings. (€ 6.39 at Amazon *)
How should the clematis montana be pruned?
As a typical spring bloomer, the Clematis montana is assigned to cutting group 1. This means that this clematis always blooms on the wood of the previous year. How to properly prune the climbing plant:
- Cut clematis montana after flowering
- Shorten tendrils that are too long by a maximum of half
- Thoroughly thin out the plant before pruning
Since this clematis tends to shed from below, the annual clearing after the flowering period is of fundamental importance for professional care. A shortening of the shoots is by no means necessary every year.
Tips & Tricks
In view of the comparatively short flowering time of a clematis montana of 3 to 4 weeks, clever hobby gardeners combine the clematis with a climbing rose that blooms more often. The ideal planting partners are the robust and wonderfully blooming climber roses, which in summer make a decorative arrangement with the dark-leaved clematis.
