Clematis 'Taiga'

Planting your Clematis:

• If planting by a wall or fence - the hole should be dug approx. 30cm (12in) away from its base.
• If planting by a tree - plant about 2 feet (60cm) away from the trunk leaning the cane of the clematis towards the support.
• Dig a planting hole 3 x wider than the roots of the shrub you're planting and mix some well-rotted compost or manure with the soil from the hole and use this to re-fill once the clematis is in place.
• Before planting soak container-grown shrubs thoroughly and allow to drain.
• Remove the plant from its pot and tease out a few of the roots.
• Add Mycorrhizal fungi to the roots when planting to help plants establish quicker.
• Plant with the crown of the plant 5-8cm deep to encourage new shoots to grow from below ground level.
• Refill the hole with the earth removed (backfilling), then firm in the soil with your heel, avoiding the root ball and water in well

Aftercare advice for your clematis:

• Feed in spring with a general-purpose feed, avoiding the stems. Mulch immediately afterwards with organic matter such as well-rotted manure, leaf mould or garden compost.
• Water regularly during periods of dry weather in the first few seasons after planting, especially for container plants.
• Clematis in pots should be given a liquid feed through the summer and early autumn.

Pruning Your Clematis:

'Taiga' flowers in late summer on growth made in that season and should be pruned in late winter or early spring - simply cut back to just above a strong pair of leaf buds about 30cm (1ft) above soil level.