I only bought this clematis in the middle of July this year, I planted it against a climbing rose on a fence. Two weeks later I went away for over 2 weeks. Came back and it was growing well, even without being watered. Watered it thoroughly and have been watering the plant during dry spells. It is growing so fast. I'm delighted and will definitely be buying from Thorncroft again, although maybe earlier in the season in future!.