It’s early July, and the clematis are flowering. Some are prolific bloomers and a few are looking a bit straggly. It’s my fault because I did not get a delivery of composted manure until very late in the season. I must remember to feed the vines in the fall or early spring.
For every clematis that dies from wilt, I am replacing the larger flowering variety with a small flowering variety because they don’t seem to be victims of the disease. Also I have found I am preferring the small bell- shaped clematis to the super-size ones that demand so much attention.
Here are a few from my collection: For a more in depth article on Clematis please read Clematis- Soaring Beauty.
Clematis Betty Corning- she gets better every year!
Clematis Dutchess of Albany- prolific bloomer
Clematis Purpurea Plena Elegans
Clematis Romana- the best of the large flowering types
Rooting for Ideas 
Thanks for this posting. I have been going through clematis-envy of my friend’s large flowering variety, but am feeling much more charitable toward my small-flowered one. It’s doing well, but the flowers are smallish and I was thinking of replacing it. I will now listen to your advice and put a plant at its roots. Do they like being fertilized? Mine has been in a whiskey barrel for about five years now.
Hi Barb,
Thanks for your comments. Clematis like well rotted manure. If you have heavy clay soil, its a good idea to add some grit to the soil so it will drain properly. Most plants reach a greater height when they are in planted in ground.
Beautiful plants. Such strong color with bell and star shapes. Do they spread? or stay in one spot. How tall in general?
Barb
Most clematis if they have the room will easily grow 10′ feet. Romona will reach that height. The iron obelisks I had made are sadly only about 6′
feet.This is one of the better disease resistant large flowering clematis. I have had this for about 10 years!
Good old Betty Corning. My sister-in-law has them in her garden in Madison, WI. By July they fully cover the old step ladder she uses for support. I’m glad to see them in the Catskills. What tips can you offer for where to plant Betty C. Does she need continuous sun or can she take some shade? The site I have in mind is dry, and gets maybe 6 hours afternoon sun. Clay soil of coarse. What about deer?
Hi Pat
My Betty Corning is planted in clay soil as well. Blooms a good 2 months for me. No deer problems in my garden ( have dogs.) The vine probably gets closer to 8-12 hours of light more early morning and then late afternoon. I planted mine in front of a yew and the dark green color really helps show up the bell flowers! This clematis is a keeper!