Although the clematis is naturally designed for multi-year growth, not all species and varieties are completely hardy. Special precautions are required, especially in the first year and in the bucket. You can find out how to overwinter successfully here.
Are clematis perennial and hardy?
Clematis are perennial plants designed for long-term growth. However, in the first year and in the container they need special protective measures for overwintering, such as a thick layer of leaves, needles or straw for the roots and breathable materials for the shoots.
Protect young clematis properly from frost and snow
Late summer from August to October has proven to be the best time to plant clematis in the garden. If the young clematis has just gained a foothold, winter is already knocking on the garden door. This is how the freshly planted clematis gets through the first winter well:
- Pile a thick layer of leaves, needles or straw at the roots
- Place reed mats in front of the tendrils on the trellis
- Free-standing climbing aids with the shoots covered with jute or garden fleece
Avoid using plastic wrap for winter protection. Condensation could form under the airtight material, causing mold and rot over time.
Overwintering clematis in a pot - this is how it works
Clematis can be cultivated for several years in a pot if there is frost-free winter quarters available. A bright garage or an unheated greenhouse is ideal. Where such a space is not available, prepare the clematis for winter as follows:
- Place the pot on a block of wood in front of the protective south wall of the house
- Wrap the container thickly with bubble wrap (€87.00 on Amazon), jute or garden fleece
- Cover the substrate with sawdust, straw, leaves or brushwood
- The tendrils protect with a hood made of breathable, weatherproof fabric
If frost develops over the course of the winter, the clematis is threatened with drought stress. This weather is characterized by severe frost without snowfall. It is therefore of the utmost urgency to water the clematis both in the bed and in the pot on a frost-free day.
Tips & Tricks
The spring-flowering Clematis species and varieties are endowed by Mother Nature with an extra portion of winter hardiness. So don't worry about saying goodbye to Clematis alpina or Clematis montana with long, bud-filled tendrils into the winter. If you use scissors on this clematis in November/December, cut off the entire spring blossom. These perennial clematis are generally only cut in May/June - if at all.
