Clematis are popular climbing vines that produce colorful flowers throughout the growing season. With proper care and pruning, many clematis varieties will bloom repeatedly from spring through fall. When selecting a clematis, one of the most important factors is choosing a variety that will flower freely and repeatedly all season long. This provides the maximum floral display and enjoyment in the garden. In this article, we will explore some of the top options for free flowering clematis and what makes them stand out.
What Does “Free Flowering” Mean?
When a clematis is described as “free flowering,” it means that it naturally produces flowers prolifically without needing special care or treatment. Free flowering clematis varieties bloom heavily in spring and then continue to produce flowers repeatedly on both old and new growth during summer and into fall. This sets them apart from clematis that only bloom during a specific season or on old wood. The most free flowering clematis will cover themselves in blooms throughout the growing season.
Factoring in Pruning Needs
An important consideration is that to maximize bloom time and encourage free flowering habits, most clematis require proper pruning. The timing and technique differs among the main clematis pruning groups:
Group 1 Clematis
Bloom in spring on old wood from the previous season. Prune immediately after flowering ends by removing dead/damaged stems.
Group 2 Clematis
Bloom in late spring and summer on old and new growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, cutting back to strong buds 12-18″ above ground level.
Group 3 Clematis
Bloom in summer and fall only on new growth. Prune hard in late winter or early spring 12-18″ above ground level.
Proper pruning encourages an abundance of new growth and flowers. Neglecting to prune will result in fewer blooms.
The Most Free Flowering Clematis Varieties
Taking into account blooming habit, season, and pruning needs, below are some of the top picks for free flowering clematis varieties:
‘The President’
– Group 2 clematis
– Large, vibrant purple-blue flowers up to 7 inches across
– Blooms June through September
– Flowers well in partial shade
‘Nelly Moser’
– Group 2 clematis
– Pale pink flowers with bold red stripe up centers
– Blooms May through September
– Tolerates heat well
‘Multi Blue’
– Group 3 clematis
– Prolific lavender-blue blooms
– Flowers July through September
– Reblooms well after pruning
‘Star Gazer’
– Group 2 clematis
– Deep plum flowers with cream stamens
– Blooms May, June and September
– Has great impact in the garden
‘Diamantina’
– Group 2 clematis
– Elegant double white flowers
– Blooms repeatedly May to September
– Has good resistance to clematis wilt
| Variety | Color | Bloom Season | Pruning Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| The President | Purple-blue | June to September | Group 2 |
| Nelly Moser | Pale pink with red stripe | May to September | Group 2 |
| Multi Blue | Lavender-blue | July to September | Group 3 |
| Star Gazer | Plum with cream | May, June, September | Group 2 |
| Diamantina | Double white | May to September | Group 2 |
Growing Conditions
While free flowering clematis varieties will bloom repeatedly under the right pruning regimen, providing optimal growing conditions will also encourage prolific flowering:
Sunlight
Most clematis prefer at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Morning sun is ideal. Some varieties tolerate partial shade.
Soil
Clematis prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil with good drainage. Amend soil with compost or manure.
Water
Established clematis require about 1 inch of water per week from rain or irrigation. Avoid wet feet.
Fertilizer
Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost around clematis in early spring and again halfway through summer.
Support
Provide sturdy supports like trellises, fences or poles for clematis vines to climb.
Planting and Care Tips
Follow these tips for successfully growing free flowering clematis:
– Plant in spring or fall in well-draining soil. Dig a hole 2 feet deep to accommodate root system.
– Place plant 2-3″ deeper than it was growing in nursery pot. This encourages more root growth.
– Give plenty of room for growth, spacing at least 3 feet apart.
– Water thoroughly after planting and provide 1 inch of water per week for first season.
– Apply 2-4″ of mulch around base to retain moisture. Avoid piling mulch against the stem.
– Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer with an all-purpose fertilizer.
– Provide sturdy supports for vines to climb up.
– Prune according to variety’s guidelines to maximize blooming.
– Monitor for pests like aphids and diseases like clematis wilt. Treat promptly.
Conclusion
With stunning colors and impressive flower displays, free flowering clematis vines are a prized addition to gardens. Varieties like ‘The President’, ‘Nelly Moser’, ‘Multi Blue’, ‘Star Gazer’ and ‘Diamantina’ stand out for their prolific blooms throughout the season when pruned properly. Provide adequate sunlight, fertile soil, ample water and climbing support to keep your clematis flowering freely in the garden for maximum enjoyment.
