Marianne's Response

Old clematis

I have a number of clematis (not evergreen) that are at least ten years old. When they were new they bloomed beautifully. Now they have abundant leaves, but no flowers. I have added potassium fertilizer at the suggestion of a nursery (don’t know if they were a master gardener or not), but there has been no change. Are they just too old? If not what do you suggest to help them bloom?

Thanks, Denise

Posted by Denise Lucas on August 11, 2021

Marianne's Response

Your clematis are not too old to bloom well. They just need rich, moist  soil with their tops in the sun and their roots in the shade. Perhaps nearby trees have grown to provide too much shade? I suggest you add Osmocote Plus fertilizer now, water well then top with a two inch mulch of wood chips. Limb up any trees so the tops of the clematis get more sun. Then wait. You should see a flush of new growth and flower buds soon. If not, write back and we will try something else. Gardening is an adventure. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti