Clematis is one of the most popular climbing plants, its showy flowers giving an eye-catching display. It is usually an easy plant to grow, but can have an aura of mystery surrounding two items in particular: first, when and how to prune the plant, and second, a problem of shoots wilting and dying back. There are also a few other problems to look out for.
A clematis vine that refuses to grow can be frustrating for any gardener. With their captivating blooms in shades of purple, pink white and red, clematis are prized for their beauty. But when your clematis plant fails to reach its potential, troubleshooting is needed.
From improper care to pests and diseases, there are several reasons a clematis may not be growing well. By identifying the underlying issue, you can get your plant back on track for vigorous growth and glorious flowers.
Common Reasons a Clematis Is Not Growing
Here are 8 of the most common causes if your clematis is not growing and possible solutions
1. Inadequate Support
Clematis are climbing vines that need a sturdy structure for support as they grow upwards. Without a trellis, fence, arbor, or other supporting framework, the vines will struggle to climb and may remain low and stunted. Install a suitable support structure and gently tie in the vines.
2. Insufficient Sunlight
Most clematis require at least 6 hours of direct sun daily for robust growth. Too much shade will result in weak, sparse foliage and few if any flowers. If possible, prune back encroaching branches or relocate the plant to a sunnier spot.
3. Under or Over Watering
Clematis needs consistently moist soil, but soggy, waterlogged roots will cause poor growth. Ensure the plant gets about 1-2 inches of water per week. Improve drainage in heavy soil.
4. Compacted or Poor Soil
Clematis prefers rich, loamy, and well-draining soil. Compacted or heavy clay soil can restrict root development. Amend clay soil with compost; add organic matter to lighten.
5. Root Damage from Pests
Vine weevils, snails, slugs, and other pests that chew on roots will impair growth. Use traps and barriers to protect root zone. Apply beneficial nematodes to control vine weevil larvae.
6. Diseases
Fungal diseases like botrytis, phytophthora, and clematis wilt are common and lead to weak growth and dieback. Provide good air circulation. Remove and destroy affected parts. Use fungicides as needed.
7. Improper Pruning
Pruning clematis at the wrong time for the variety removes flowering wood. Identify pruning group and follow proper pruning method. Most only need light pruning.
8. Extreme Temperatures
Excessive heat and cold extremse stress clematis. Ensure soil remains evenly moist in heat. Add mulch. Protect roots from hard freezes. Avoid planting in hot, south-facing locations.
Key Tips for a Healthy, Growing Clematis
Follow these best practices for optimal clematis health and growth:
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Plant in spring in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining but moisture retentive soil.
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Provide a sturdy vertical support structure and gently tie in vines.
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Use mulch and groundcovers to keep roots cool. Avoid hot reflected heat.
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Water thoroughly when top few inches of soil become dry. Avoid overwatering.
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Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
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Prune according to variety, removing dead or damaged growth as needed.
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Monitor for common pests like aphids. Control with insecticidal soap.
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Immediately remove and destroy any diseased parts. Disinfect tools between cuts.
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Cover roots in winter to protect from hard freezes. Insulate containers.
When to Worry About Lack of Growth
Growth in clematis may start off slowly as the plant establishes itself. However, you should see noticeable size gains after the first year. If after 2-3 years your plant still remains small and sparse, intervention is likely needed.
A young or newly planted clematis may not flower much initially. But a 3 year old vine that refuses to bloom likely indicates a problem.
If you’ve ruled out the common issues above, the plant may be a dud. Consider replacing it with another variety, and choosing a new location in case site conditions are unsuitable.
Enjoying These Glorious Vines
With proper care and conditions, clematis will reward you with abundant flowers and vigorous climbing vines. But when something goes wrong, growth can quickly slow to a standstill. By identifying and addressing the underlying issue, you can get your plant thriving again.
Pay close attention to clematis cultural requirements, and act promptly if you spot any problems. Your efforts will be rewarded with a healthy, growing clematis that transforms your garden with cascades of colorful blooms.
What is the greyish-white growth present on the leaves of my plant?
Your clematis is affected by the fungal disease powdery mildew.
Why won’t my clematis flower?
The most common cause of this problem is unsuitable growing conditions. Clematis need a moisture retentive but well-drained soil. The roots need to be kept cool and shaded, but growth and flowering will be impaired if the top of the plant is kept in deep shade. Place stones or pebbles around the base of the plant, or carefully position other plants so that only the base of the clematis is shaded.
Pruning certain species and cultivars at the wrong time of year can prevent flowering, by removing the part of the plant from which the flowers would normally be produced.
If the growing position seems suitable and the plant has been pruned correctly but still won’t flower, try an application of sulphate of potash in late winter or early spring.
How to rejuvenate a Clematis vine, and how to get FREE new plants by layering!!
FAQ
How do I encourage my clematis to grow?
Mulching around the base of the plant will help conserve moisture. Clematis are happiest with cool shade at their roots and warm sun on their foliage — mulching around the roots will help keep the soil cool, as will the foliage of a low-growing perennial placed in front of this vine.
Why is my clematis struggling to grow?
Clematis are not very drought tolerant, especially when in a container, and I’d suspect lack of water, even intermittantly either at the nursery or after purchase, is a primary culprit for its apparent failure to thrive.
How do you encourage new growth on clematis?
Regular pruning of clematis encourages strong growth and flowering and keeps the growth in check.
How do I bring my clematis back to life?
1. Cut back all parts of the plant affected. 2. Make sure the Clematis is planted deeply enough – common mistake. 3. Mulch with good organic matter, mixing in 1/2 cup of corn meal and a handful of alfalfa pellets. 4. Next spring, trim back the clematis to two good growth points on the stem.
Do clematis wilt?
This is a bacterial disease that can be fatal but, fortunately, it is possible to save the plant by pruning out the affected area. Early signs of this problem include yellowing and wilting leaves in spring and early summer, often just on a part of the plant. Occasionally, the clematis might fail to leaf out in the spring altogether.
Why is my Clematis not blooming?
Fertilizer – Improper fertilization is often the reason for a non-blooming clematis. Usually, the problem isn’t lack of fertilizer, but too much, which may produce lush foliage and few blooms. As a general rule, clematis benefits from a handful of 5-10-10 fertilizer in the spring, along with a layer of compost.
Do Clematis need hot roots?
2. Hot Roots Clematis need cool roots. They need plenty of moisture and soil temperatures between 50 and 65°F or they won’t flower. The plants might be stunted, as well. You can stick a thermometer in the soil on a warm day to see what the temperature actually is in the ground beside your vines.
Is Clematis easy to grow?
It is usually an easy plant to grow, but can have an aura of mystery surrounding two items in particular: first, when and how to prune the plant, and second, a problem of shoots wilting and dying back.
Do Clematis need full sun?
Because clematis plants need cool roots, some gardeners try to provide them with that by planting the vines in some shade. But they really need full sun or at least partial sun to flower best, with just the roots shaded or otherwise protected.
Why are my Clematis leaves curled & sticky?
Curled and sticky leaves on clematis are most likely to be signs of an aphid infestation. The honeydew that these aphids excrete can also lead to sooty mould growth on your plants. Aphids in a garden are not a problem per se, but they can be problematic if their numbers get out of control.