Clematis montana bloom in May and June in bright white or delicate pink tones over dark foliage. Thanks to their abundance of flowers, coupled with impressive vigor, they are among gardeners' favorites. You can find out how to properly care for these clematis here.
How do I care for Clematis montana properly?
Clematis montana care includes a sunny location with shady roots, humus-rich, nutrient-rich and well-drained soil as well as regular watering and fertilizing with potassium-rich preparations. Optimal care also includes thinning and, if necessary, shortening the shoots after flowering.
What should the location be like?
The majestic Clematis montana prefers a location where its head is illuminated by the sun while the roots are in shade. In addition, these conditions are beneficial for a clematis:
- Humose soil, rich in nutrients
- Fresh, moist and well-drained
- Preferably a pH value of 5.5 to 6.0
Which water and nutrient balance is beneficial?
The water and nutrient requirements of a Clematis montana increase in proportion to the leaf mass and flower abundance. Therefore, check every 1 to 2 days with a thumb test to see whether the soil has dried out. Always water the clematis directly onto the root area, as watering the leaves could attract fungal spores.
Like every clematis, Clematis montana primarily requires potassium. Only behind this comes the need for nitrogen, phosphorus and trace elements. Therefore, fertilize the climbing plant every 6 to 8 weeks with a special preparation for clematis (€9.00 on Amazon). Alternatively, fertilize organically every 8 to 14 days with potassium-rich comfrey manure, compost and horn shavings.
How to cut the Clematis montana?
As a typical spring bloomer, Clematis montana is assigned to cutting group 1. This means that this clematis always flowers on the previous year's wood. How to cut the climbing plant correctly:
- Pruning Clematis montana after flowering
- Short tendrils that are too long by a maximum of half
- Thoroughly thin the plant before each pruning
Since this clematis tends to become bald from below, annual thinning after the flowering period is of fundamental importance for professional care. However, it is not necessary to shorten the shoots 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. Ideal planting partners are the robust and wonderfully blooming climber roses, which create a decorative arrangement with the dark-leaved clematis in summer.
