In the past, several of our trellises have been used for growing edible annuals such as gourds, beans, cucumbers and squash. After transitioning to mostly florals, I wanted to use existing supports for perennial flowering vines. Upon seeing my one, lone clematis vine bloom, I decided to add additional cultivars, with various characteristics. It can now be found in a wide array of colors, scattered throughout our gardens, intertwined with roses and blooming through summer.
Adding to it’s charm, as vines wrap the trellis and flowers appear, the blooms can be viewed from all angles, another reason we chose it for our arches.
Clematis as a cut flower
Like roses, this perrenial takes a few years to get established before you can cut any substantial stems from them. While I’m not a patient person, they are worth the wait. As seen below, you can enjoy blooms on the vines the first couple of years, easing the anticipation.
A palette for everyone
No matter your color preference, chance are you can find a clematis variety to fit your aesthetic. For a pure white, “John Huxtable” fits the bill.
Companion Planting
If you’re short on space, consider planting clematis with your roses, as we’ve done below. Because both species typically need the same growing conditions, soil, water, fertilizer, light, etc. they make a great pair. Lastly, they are happy to share a trellis or support.
If your roses grow happily and are healthy, it is a good indication that your clematis would be content growing alongside them.
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