Clematis classification and pruning

1. Spring flower types

Spring-flowering types are also known as early-flowering clematis species, and include their variants, cultivars, and hybrids. Because it blooms very early, the flowering period is mostly in spring. Therefore, it is not advisable to prune after spring, just remove the dead branches to avoid affecting its flowering. But after entering the dormant period in autumn, proper pruning is needed. Cut off the overly dense branches and shorten the overly long branches to promote the sprouting of new branches in the second year. In addition, the remaining flowers should be picked off after flowering to avoid nutrient waste.

2. Summer flower types

The summer flower type is mainly large-flowered Clematis. This type usually blooms in late spring and early summer, so it should be pruned lightly in early spring. Keep the overall structure and trim any branches that are too long. Usually 2-6 nodes are cut off and more than 7 nodes are retained. This will allow it to continue blooming on the old branches and is also conducive to the growth of new branches. After flowering, you need to trim off the withered flowers, and then cut off the branches that have bloomed in July, and it will bloom again in October.

Autumn flower types

Fall-flowering types are also known as late-flowering clematis species. This type of plant blooms later, usually in late summer or early autumn, and some may bloom until October. Due to its long growth period, heavy pruning is required in spring. Cut off most of the branches, leaving only 3-7 nodes. After it blooms, you should cut off the remaining flowers so that it can bloom again.