In view of the different flowering times, beginner gardeners wonder when to cut a clematis. For better orientation, the plant family has been divided into the following three cutting groups:
When should I prune my clematis?
When a clematis is cut depends on its cutting group: Spring-flowering clematis (group 1) are cut in June/July; double-flowering clematis (group 2) receive a main cut in November/December and a rejuvenation cut every 4-5 years; Summer-flowering clematis (group 3) are cut back before frost or in early spring.
Pruning group 1 – spring-flowering clematis
When a clematis blooms in spring, it has already laid its buds the previous year. Clematis alpina and similar species should be cut after flowering in June/July.
Cutting group 2 – double flowering clematis
Two-flowering clematis, such as the world-famous clematis 'The President' or other hybrids, just clean them out after the first flowering. This group receives the actual main cut in November/December. In addition, these clematis receive a rejuvenation cut every 4 to 5 years.
Pruning group 3 – Summer flowering clematis
If a clematis blossoms during the summer, cut this specimen back generously shortly before the first frost or in early spring. Any seed heads that form are removed promptly so that the clematis does not waste any energy in them.