How long do clematis bloom?
- Keith Funk
- Jul 1
- 2 min read
Q: Do clematis continue blooming if you keep feeding & watering them? Mine usually stop after a few weeks but I haven’t ever fed them except for compost. I've noticed in other gardens clematis do seem to bloom longer.
A: The older varieties of clematis like Jackman have a pronounced season of bloom but may throw a few, sporadic flowers during the rest of the summer. Newer hybrids tend to bloom longer. If you plant a mix of Group 2 (early summer bloomers) and Group 3 (mid to late summer bloomers) you can extend the season of color. I plant the two groups together to intermingle. I like Toki, Vancouver Fragrant Star, Boulevard Acropolis, Vancouver Starry Nights, Pink Champagne, Jackman Suberba, Blue Angel, Viola.
Feeding helps A LOT. They are very hungry plants. Rose food is a good choice. Clematis like their foliage in the sun but their roots in the shade so be sure to use a 2” layer of mulch extending several feet from the plant. Establishment also makes a difference. I don't expect a decent display until at least the 3rd year. For these large flowered hybrids, prune back hard in late winter or early spring for best flowering and to prevent embarrassing naked ankles.
It’s a big family. There are also pretty clematis with smaller flowers in various shapes and colors that need less water, and herbaceous bush types like Integrifolia.
Read our Q & As with Keith Funk answering common Colorado gardening questions here. You can also hear him on the Garden Wise Radio Show
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