What to consider before planting
You can only plant a clematis correctly if you have already considered the needs of the clematis before the actual task. The following aspects are particularly important:
Make sure your clematis' roots can penetrate deeply into the soil. You should make heavy clay soils more permeable with sand or gravel. Sandy soils are well suited, but have the disadvantage that water and nutrients cannot be stored for long. To better care for your clematis, mix this with soil. For this you can use, for example, potting soil, peat or this plant soil.
You should definitely avoid waterlogging. If necessary, gravel or chippings under the root ball serve as a drainage layer.
Clematis need a “shady foot”. Plant small trees or bushy perennials in front of your clematis, generously apply pine bark as mulching material or shade the root area with stones and other decorative building materials (e.g. roof shingles or natural stones).
Also take into account that the location must suit the preferences of the clematis. Since these can differ depending on the genus and purpose, you will find detailed information about the right clematis location in a separate guide.
If you want to plant the clematis and create a hedge or place several plants next to each other, measure in advance how much space is needed. Clematis require a planting distance that can vary depending on the variety. For Vitalba, for example, this should be between 80 and 100 centimeters, while the Viticella genus is happy with 30 to 50 centimeters. You can find the exact recommendations in the profiles that we have created for you for each plant.
This is what you need to consider when planting clematis: step-by-step instructions
Once all the preparations have been completed, you know the right location for your clematis, what soil you need and what the soil should be like. Now the clematis can finally move to its destination. These step-by-step instructions should make your project easier:
Before planting, place the pot in a water bath for about ten minutes.
The planting hole should be approximately twice as large as the plant pot. Make sure the ground is well loosened. If necessary, mix the garden soil with good potting soil.
If there is strong root competition from other trees or perennials, we recommend installing a so-called rhizome barrier. An old flower pot or bucket with a diameter of at least 25 to 30 centimeters can be used for this. If you remove the bottom of the container and cut the ring open on one side, you will get a round plastic or metal strip, which should provide your clematis with adequate protection.
Carefully remove the plant from the pot. To do this, do not pull the clematis by the shoots, but rather turn them upside down. Support the root ball with one hand and carefully lift the pot upwards. Then place the clematis in the prepared planting hole.
Plant your clematis about 5 to 7 centimeters deeper than it was in the pot. But be careful: This does not apply to wild species, as they are very sensitive to moisture and need to be planted at a slightly elevated position.
When planting on a wall on a trellis, make sure that the distance between the trellis and the wall is at least 10 to 15 centimeters. This allows air to circulate and moisture to dry out more quickly. This also helps prevent the dreaded clematis wilt. You can of course also read about how to prevent and combat clematis wilt from us.
After planting, press the soil well and water generously. Don't be afraid to muddy the area around the new plant well. A watering wall makes watering easier.
Watering in accordance with the weather is essential in the next few weeks and promotes the closure of any cavities in the root ball.
Clematis need a climbing aid. Choose one that is as stable as possible and has enough struts. Trellises and bamboo sticks for creative self-constructions.