Clematis is a group of over 250 species of flowering vines. Most clematis varieties are climbers that grow well on a trellis, fence, or other structural support frame. Some species can grow in climate zones 3 through 9, and they bloom in the spring and summer. Some even bloom into early fall.
These beautiful flowering vines are popular for good reason. Clematis flowers are often large, showy, and quite colorful. These popular vines commonly bloom in purple and shades of white or pink. There are also numerous bicolor varieties.
Some varieties sport small fragrant flowers, while others bloom with an abundance or large single or double flowers. Some varieties are evergreen, while others lose their leaves each winter.
Many varieties of Clematis will grow well in cold and moderate climates, while others prefer warmer climates. Make sure the varieties you choose are tolerant of your climate zone. But what do you need to do to get your Clematis ready for winter? With a little winter care and yearly upkeep, you can keep your plants healthy and blooming year after year.
Clematis are popular flowering vines that bloom profusely in spring, summer or fall depending on the variety. While the brightly colored flowers tend to be the main attraction, proper clematis winter care is crucial to ensure your vines stay healthy and bloom abundantly the following season. With a few simple maintenance tasks before and during the winter months, your clematis will thrive.
Why Winter Care is Important
Clematis are deciduous or evergreen perennial vines in the Ranunculaceae family. There are over 300 species with a wide diversity of bloom times, flower forms, colors and sizes.
While specific care depends on the variety, in general clematis need a cool period in winter to go dormant. This primes them for vigorous new growth when warmer temperatures arrive in spring.
Some important aspects of winter care for clematis include
- Cutting back the vines
- Mulching the root zone
- Reducing water
- Protecting from extreme cold if needed
Taking time to prepare clematis for winter keeps it healthier and encourages prolific flowering the following season.
Deadheading Spent Blooms
Before winter arrives, it’s important to remove any spent, faded flowers. This is referred to as deadheading. Snip off the flowers just above the first set of healthy leaves.
Deadheading clematis accomplishes a few things:
- Directs the plant’s energy into root and plant growth instead of seed production
- Improves the plant’s aesthetics by removing ugly, dried blooms
- Reduces risk of disease by getting rid of potentially infected flowers
Use clean, sharp pruners or garden scissors when deadheading to avoid damaging the remaining healthy stems.
Cutting Back the Vines
How far to cut back clematis vines in preparation for winter depends on which of the three pruning groups the variety belongs to:
- Group 1: Little or no cutting back needed
- Group 2: Light prune of up to one-third after spring flowering
- Group 3: Hard prune to 2 – 3 feet above ground in late winter
Check the plant tag or plant description to find out the recommended pruning group. Pruning properly encourages prolific blooms on each type.
Mulching the Root Zone
Clematis roots appreciate being cool, so a winter mulch helps maintain an even root temperature. Spread 2-4 inches of shredded bark, compost, leaves, straw or other organic material around the base of the plant.
Pull mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rotting. Wait until winter when the ground is frozen before applying mulch.
The mulch insulates roots from temperature extremes and also enriches the soil as it breaks down.
Watering Considerations
As clematis vines go dormant in winter, they require less water. Too much moisture can lead to root rot.
Avoid overwatering during winter months. The vines may benefit from a thorough soaking before extreme cold sets in, which helps insulate the roots.
Potted clematis should not sit in waterlogged soil over winter. Tip containers to drain excess water. Move pots under overhangs for protection.
Protecting from Extreme Cold
Most clematis are quite cold hardy, rated for USDA zones 3-9. But if an unusually frigid winter is forecasted, some varieties may appreciate extra protection:
- Place a cold frame over potted plants
- Drape burlap over vines
- Wrap vines with foam insulation
- Surround vines with dry leaves or straw
Don’t prune clematis too late or new growth may get damaged if it emerges before winter ends. Remove protections gradually as weather warms.
Caring for Evergreen Clematis
Evergreen clematis varieties like the Armandii and Alpina groups retain their foliage in winter. While they don’t require major cutting back, remove dead leaves or stems. Keep soil moist if winters are dry. Add winter mulch. Evergreen types are less hardy and appreciate protection when temperatures drop below freezing.
Staking Up Vines
Some gardeners recommend staking up the bare vines before winter hits. This prevents breakage from heavy snow or ice buildup. Others argue leaving them sprawl on the ground insulates the roots more fully.
If opting to stake up vines, use wide, soft plant ties to avoid abrasions on fragile dormant stems.
Spring Revival Tips
Once winter passes, here are some tips for reviving clematis:
- Remove mulch and insulation as the weather warms
- Prune back any damaged areas using clean pruners
- Water thoroughly as growth resumes
- Apply fertilizer or compost to nurture new shoots
- Check emerging leaves for signs of pests or disease
With proper care, your clematis will leap into vigorous growth and reward you with a bountiful show of flowers once again!
Common Questions about Clematis Winter Care
Should I cut back my clematis for winter?
- Yes, all clematis except Evergreen and Group 1 varieties should be cut back in fall or winter.
When should I cut back clematis?
- Cut back Group 2 in early spring and Group 3 in late winter.
Do I need to mulch my clematis in winter?
- Mulching is highly recommended to insulate roots from temperature extremes.
How do I overwinter clematis in pots?
- Move pots to protected areas, stop fertilizing, reduce watering, and add mulch once the ground freezes.
What do I do with clematis in winter?
- Deadhead spent blooms, cut back excess growth, apply winter mulch, reduce watering, and provide protection from extreme cold.
How do I prepare my clematis for winter?
- Proper care includes deadheading, cutting back vines, mulching, adjusting water, and providing protection if needed for your climate.
With the right winter preparation and care, your clematis vines will thrive season after season, rewarding you with their joyful blooms year after year.
Group 3: Summer or Fall Bloomers
- Blooms in late spring, summer, and into early fall.
- Produces flower buds only on new wood.
- Perform heavy pruning in winter before spring growth begins.
- A lot of people in this group do well in mild to cool climates.
It is recommended to remove wilted flowers and dead vines in late autumn or early winter.
Sometime in late fall or early winter, you can deadhead your Clematis vine. Using sharp pruners, remove spent blooms and any dead or damaged vines. This keeps your plants looking their best.
Still, deadheading isn’t necessary; plants will keep growing and blooming whether you remove spent flower heads or not. It comes down to personal preference.
In the fall, get your clematis vines ready to grow by cutting off any that are dead or damaged, untangling them, and training them to grow on something.
Your Clematis vines will be ready to grow and flower again next year if you work with them in the fall and early winter. Remove any dead vines and dead plant debris from around the plant that may host overwintering insect pests.
You should take a close look at your vines when the leaves fall off and the plant goes to sleep. Now is a good time to train your vines to grow on a support system and untangle any vines that have grown in the wrong direction. You can tie your plant to a support structure, like a trellis, arbor, or fence, with small ties.
Group 1: Early Spring Bloomers
- Blooms in early spring or even late winter.
- Produces flower buds on old wood, from last year’s vine.
- Requires no pruning, other than basic maintenance.
- This group of plants usually has a thick, woody base stem.
- This group isn’t as good at handling cold weather, so it does better in warmer places.
