Clematis in May: monthly care

Clematis 'Jackmanii' thrives in full sun or partial shade, ideally with its roots in cool shade and its head in the sun. Choose a position against a wall, fence, trellis, or pergola where the plant can climb freely. This cultivar tolerates both loam and chalky soils, but the ground must be well-drained yet moisture-retentive. Before planting, dig a hole roughly 45 cm wide and deep, and work in plenty of organic matter such as well-rotted compost or manure to improve soil structure and fertility. Plant between March and May or in September and October. Set the rootball about 8–10 cm deeper than it sat in its pot; this encourages new shoots to develop from below ground and helps the plant recover if clematis wilt strikes. Space plants 200 cm apart if you're planting more than one. Spread the roots gently in the planting hole, backfill with improved soil, and firm in carefully. Water thoroughly immediately after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Apply a 5–8 cm layer of mulch such as compost, bark chips, or gravel around the base, keeping it a few centimetres clear of the stems to prevent rot. This mulch keeps the roots cool and conserves moisture. Install support at planting time—clematis 'Jackmanii' climbs by twining leaf stalks, so provide canes, wires, or trellis with gaps of 10–15 cm. Tie in the main stems loosely with soft twine to guide initial growth, and water regularly during the first growing season until the plant is established.