In the pot, the clematis turns out to be a magnificent ornament on the balcony. In order for the clematis to develop its wonderful flowers in this location, various important aspects must be taken into account when planting. Read here what to look out for.
How to plant clematis on the balcony?
For clematis on the balcony, choose a 20 liter pot with drainage and fill it with loose, nutrient-rich potting soil. Choose a sunny, west-facing location and plant the clematis 2 eyes deep. Offer the plant a climbing aid and, if necessary, shady underplanting.
This is how the pot, substrate and location should be designed
In order for a clematis to spread its powerful roots, the pot must not be too small. The ideal bucket has a volume of at least 20 liters and a bottom opening for water drainage. The climbing plant develops its full potential in this substrate:
- Loose, nutrient-rich potted plant soil
- Optimized with mature compost, a little sand and perlite
- Ideally with a pH value of 5.5 to 6.0
Native to sparse forests, clematis seek the sun for their flowers and want to lie with their roots in the shade. Therefore, choose a location on the balcony on a west-facing, sunny and wind-protected house wall.
Planting clematis professionally in a pot – this is how to do it correctly
In the wild, clematis thrives in well-drained forest soil as it climbs the trees skyward. The clematis therefore does not want to be confronted with waterlogging. Plant the flowering beauty on the balcony preferably in these steps:
- Create a 5-8 centimeter high drainage above the floor opening made of grit, pebbles or pottery shards
- Fill the bucket three quarters full with substrate
- Depending on the pot volume and variety, plant 1 to 3 clematis so that 2 eyes are below the surface of the soil
- Water the clematis generously and mulch with pine bark or decorative ornamental pebbles
If there is no climbing aid on the wall yet, it will be installed afterwards. For a natural appearance on the balcony, a wooden trellis (€16.00 on Amazon) is recommended. Alternatively, plant a clematis in a flower box or pot with an integrated climbing aid. Depending on the variety, the clematis exhibits busy growth. The first tendrils can be fixed within a short time.
Tips & Tricks
If the pot offers enough space, cleverly chosen underplanting will provide the desired shading in the root area. Plant the clematis on the balcony in community with blue cushions, purple bells, hostas or other low-competitive, short-growing neighbors.
