Growing Clematis in Containers

If you are growing clematis in a container up a free-standing frame, such as an obelisk, we recommend that the entire pot and frame do not exceed 6', and that the plant should have a maximum height of about 6'. Anything taller than this tends to be too top heavy, and so is likely to blow over too easily in strong winds. However, if you are growing your clematis up an object that is fixed to the ground, such as a wall or trellis, then you do not need to be so restrictive on the height of the plant.

Choose a large container, preferably terracotta not plastic, at least 18" deep with adequate drainage holes. Put plenty of crocks, stones or gravel in the bottom and stand the container on feet or bricks to ensure good drainage.

Unless you mix your own compost we would recommend using John Innes No.3 mixed with a quarter as much again of peat or peat substitute. Plant the clematis as described for the open ground.

Check regularly for watering needs - Do NOT keep container grown clematis too wet over the winter, and ensure the pot is draining freely!

From late spring to early autumn we recommend using liquid tomato feed - see Feeding.
At pruning time remove an inch or two of compost from the top of the pot and replace with fresh compost to which a single handful of bonemeal has been added, and water in. Every four to five years root pruning may be necessary. At pruning time when the plant is dormant cut away 2" - 3" of root from the outside of the rootball. Cut one third off the bottom, and re-pot.

Patio Clematis - specific notes.

To keep these clematis compact, we recommend HARD pruning in February / March and pruning hard again after the first flush of flowers has finished.
In other words - ignore the 'normal' pruning instructions!