Clematis Reflections

Place the Clematis 'Reflections' in a shady spot to preserve its colour, using a layer of compost or well-rotted manure as mulch in February, avoiding contact with the stem. This will limit the risk of wilting and encourage new vigorous shoots from the base. You can also keep the base cool with a ground cover plant or a perennial geranium. Position the head of the Clematis in the sun. Plant it by covering the root ball with 3 cm (1in) of soil, in soil that has been worked to a depth of 20 cm (8in) and enriched with good quality compost. The enemy of the Clematis is excess water, which is why it should be watered regularly but sparingly, and not directly on the base. Prune dead or weak stems in early March before the start of growth, and cut back the others to around 30 cm (12in) above the ground. This will help to thicken the plant and increase its flowering. Remove faded flowers for a longer blooming period. Clematis can cling on their own thanks to their tendrils. To promote their growth, provide them with a trellis or let them dress the trunk of a tree by placing a wire mesh around it. Clematis also enjoy growing freely on neighbouring plants.