Although the clematis is naturally designed for growth over several years, not all species and varieties are completely hardy. Special precautions are required, especially in the first year and in the tub. You can find out how to overwinter here.

Properly protect young clematis from frost and snow

Late summer from August to October has proven to be the best time to plant clematis in the garden. When the young clematis has just gained a foothold, winter is already knocking on the garden door. This is how the freshly planted clematis gets through the first winter:

  • Pile up a thick layer of leaves, needles or straw at the roots
  • Place reed mats in front of the tendrils on the trellis
  • Cover free-standing climbing aids with the shoots with jute or garden fleece

Avoid using plastic wrap for winter protection. Condensation could form under the airtight material, causing mold and rot over time.

Overwinter clematis in a bucket - this is how it works

The perennial culture of a clematis succeeds in a bucket in an exemplary manner if a frost-free winter quarters is available. A bright garage or an unheated greenhouse is ideal. Where such a space is not available, prepare the clematis for winter as follows:

  • Place the pot on a block of wood in front of the protective south wall of the house
  • Pack the jar thickly with bubble wrap, jute or garden fleece
  • Cover the substrate with sawdust, straw, leaves or brushwood
  • The tendrils protect with a hood made of breathable, weatherproof fabric

If frost develops over the course of the winter, the clematis is at risk of drought stress. This weather is characterized by severe frost without snowfall. It is therefore of the utmost urgency to water the clematis both in the bed and in the pot on a frost-free day.

tips and tricks

The spring-blooming clematis species and cultivars are endowed with an extra portion of winter hardiness by Mother Nature. Therefore, do not hesitate to say goodbye to Clematis alpina or Clematis montana with long, bud-covered tendrils for the winter. Use scissors on this clematis in November/December, cut away all of the spring blooms. In principle, these perennial clematis are only cut in May/June - if at all.

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