Now, clematis may have many uses in the landscape. The clematis supports itself with its tendrils that twist around arbors, fences or other supports. Many gardeners will use the large flowering hybrids as specimen plants. They'll display them on trellises, posts, old tree stumps, walls and pergolas. The clematis flower lasts up to 10 days when cut, and can be worked into floral arrangements.

Types of Clematis- There are three basic types of clematis; ones that produce flowers on this year's growth (new wood); ones that produce flowers on the previous year's growth (old wood); and those that produce flowers on both new and old growth. Some clematis varieties bloom in the late spring and early summer, while other varieties wait until late summer and early fall.

Pruning- There are 3 main ways to prune clematis for the 3 different types of clematis described above. Clematis that flower on new growth should be heavily pruned every winter or early spring back to the first pair of leaf buds above the ground. This usually means 6"-8" above the ground. l

The second and third types of clematis, which flower on old, or old and new growth, are best pruned in early winter or spring. Prune lightly, which involves more judgment. Prune to reduce the plant to a manageable size or to revitalize. Trim lightly when it is necessary to retain vines. Light pruning is always preferred for clematis that flower only on old wood, because only a minimum of buds are removed.

Location- Clematis require a site that will receive at least one half day of direct sunlight. This helps in bud and bloom production, and lowers susceptibility to crown rot. Young clematis are extremely susceptible to crown rot, which is a disease. Crown Rot can usually be prevented by treating the plant with a garden or flower fungicide throughout the growing season.

Particular care must be exercised in preparing the soil for clematis. The soil mixture must be well-drained and aerated. For best results, dig a hole much larger and much deeper than the root system. Mix generous portions of peat moss with the soil. Dolomitic limestone should be added to raise the pH of acid soils. You'll want to use about 3-1/2 ounces of dolomitic limestone per bushel of soil.

Clematis like to have a cool root zone. It's important to plant the clematis a little deeper than most plants. The crown and sprouts should be covered with about 2 to 3 inches of soil. Use a mulch around the base of the clematis vine to retain moisture and to control weeds. Or plant clematis by shrubs, perennials, or annuals that will shade the root system. The plants are also susceptible to any root disturbances. These can include animals digging around the roots, or growing in a low spot where water may collect.

Handle with great care when planting and avoid breaking or damaging the plant. .Give clematis time to get a good root system established before you expect flowers. This may take a year or two. Double flowering varieties may take a bit longer.

After Planting- Clematis need water, but not too much. Feel the soil between waterings. Plants that are too wet can be affected by crown rot. How often clematis need to be watered will depend on the weather. Moisture control in the root area is important, since the roots cannot tolerate hot, dry conditions. Soak the soil once a week to adequately moisten it to a depth of 8 to 10 inches.

Clematis need fertilizer to sustain good growth and flowering. You'll want to top dress the soil at the base of the vine with 2 to 3 tablespoons of 5-10-5 or 4-10-4 in late March. Repeat this application in mid- July. This can supplemented with a water soluble like Miracle-Gro.

"Henryii"- Very large white flowers in June and September. No winter pruning.

"Jackmanii"-The most profuse blooming dark purple. Blooms June, July, and September. Prune hard in winter.

Montana - Montana Clematis are among the easiest to grow. They are vigorous growers and strong bloomers. All bloom in May and June. "Marjorie" is a very heavy bloomer with light pink flowers that have a light vanilla fragrance. No winter pruning.