Experienced grower's notes on Clematis

I've been growing plants seriously for over fifteen years and Clematis remains a reliable favourite. For anyone starting out: the most critical thing is training new growth to the support structure while still flexible. Everything else follows from that.

slow establishment in the first season before taking off is the challenge that trips up most beginners and some experienced growers too. I've been growing mine in a house wall with appropriate fixings for support for three seasons now and the results are consistently good. many varieties offering fragrance, colour, and wildlife value is what makes it worth coming back to year after year. peak flowering display in summer is when I show it off — it earns its place fully then.