When is the best time to prune clematis?

Clematis pruning effect

Pruning clematis can promote the growth of new branches and reduce nutrient consumption, which can improve its ornamental value. The plant enters a dormant period in autumn, and pruning will not cause nutrient loss.

Clematis pruning time

Clematis is usually pruned in spring and autumn, three times a year. Pruning after flowering in spring is generally more casual, and can be heavy or light. If it is pruned lightly, it will generally bloom in about 40 days, while if it is pruned heavily, it will bloom again after 1 month.

How to prune clematis

1. Spring pruning: Some clematis varieties bloom in summer and autumn, so a light pruning can be done in the spring to promote the growth of new branches and store more nutrients. Varieties that bloom in autumn need heavy pruning, but not too heavy to affect its growth.

2. Autumn pruning: Autumn pruning is suitable for clematis that bloom in spring. Since there is no pruning in spring, the plants will enter a dormant state in autumn. The overly dense branches can be thinned out and the overly long branches can be shortened to promote its growth in the next year.

3. Pruning after flowering: After Clematis blooms, the withered flowers can be pruned, and the yellow leaves should also be cut off. This can encourage it to bloom again. For varieties that bloom in spring, the corresponding branches should also be pruned. The pruning should not be too heavy so as not to affect its recovery.

4. Pruning after disease: After Clematis becomes sick, the diseased branches and leaves can be cut off to avoid bacterial infection. The cut diseased branches and leaves should not be thrown away randomly, but need to be destroyed in a centralized manner to avoid residual bacteria.

Clematis pruning precautions

There is no regular pattern for pruning clematis, and it can be pruned all year round. Generally, it will enter a dormant state in autumn and winter, and its growth will be slow. It is best to prune it. The seedlings can be cut off, and relatively large branches can be left.