Clematis vines are popular garden plants that can grow well with little care if planted in the right spot. However, pruning them correctly at least once a year helps keep the vines healthy and full of colorful flowers. This guide explains when and how to prune the three main types of clematis, based on when they bloom.
The Three Groups of Clematis
Clematis plants are divided into three groups. Each group grows and blooms differently, so it’s important to know which group your clematis belongs to before pruning.
If you don’t know your clematis group, just look at when it blooms to decide the best time to prune.
Group 1 Clematis
Bloom Time: Spring
When to Prune: Right after they finish blooming
How to Prune: Only remove dead, broken, or misplaced vines. These clematis bloom on old wood, so pruning is usually minimal and done after the plant is two years old. Just clean up the vines and remove old flowers to help the plant prepare for next year’s blooms.
Group 2 Clematis
Bloom Time: Twice a year — first in May and June, then again in late summer
When to Prune: Twice — once in late winter or early spring before growth starts, and again after the first flowers fade
How to Prune: In early spring, cut back about one-third of last year’s growth to about 12 inches above the ground, leaving at least one strong bud on each vine. After the first bloom, remove old seed pods to encourage a second round of flowers. Also, cut away any dead or messy vines.
Group 2 clematis are forgiving and can bloom on both old and new stems, so even if you prune heavily, they usually recover well.
Group 3 Clematis
Bloom Time: Mid-summer to early fall
When to Prune: Late spring, when buds start to grow
How to Prune: Cut all vines back to about 12 inches above the soil. These clematis grow quickly and will produce lots of new shoots and flowers after pruning.
Extra Care Tips for Clematis
Fertilizing: Clematis need nutrients to grow well. In spring, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer, then use a balanced fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season to help your plant bloom.
Mulching: Each spring, add a 3- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch like bark chips around the base of your clematis. Mulch keeps the soil moist and cool, and prevents weeds from taking nutrients away from the roots.
By following these simple pruning and care tips, your clematis vines will stay healthy and produce beautiful flowers year after year!
