Florida
Exotic, striking and great value!
The florida group clematis will give your garden that little something extra which you didn’t know it needed.
These stunning clematis are very prolific and can flower for a very long time when given the right care and attention, so here are my top tips for the florida clematis.
I would recommend growing florida clematis in large pots because they perform very well and they make a stunning display on a patio. Stand the container on the patio from late February to early October and then move it into a sheltered corner or cold glasshouse to over-winter. They will not need heated conditions during the winter, just shelter and if taking them undercover they will probably continue flowering.
In early March the previous season’s growth should be hard pruned down to approximately one foot (30cm) from the soil level and a fresh ‘top-dressing’ of compost and bonemeal can be applied to the container. Use Westland Gro-Sure Slow Release Plant Food for consistent feeding through the year.
Avoid keeping the florida’s too wet over the winter, on the other hand they must not be allowed to dry out completely. Always ensure the pot drains freely and each year harden the plants off during late March as described in the Planting & Care Guide.
When planting florida clematis in the garden they will require the shelter of a south or south – west facing wall, with good free draining soil. A sheet of bubble plastic or a double layer of garden fleece draped across and pegged into position will keep the worst of the winter weather at bay. This protection can be removed during early March so that hard pruning can be carried out, then feed with a single handful of bonemeal and water it in. Replace the protection until the worst of the weather has passed.