How to grow Clematis in the UK
Clematis
Clematis (Clematis) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Pruning depends on group — Group 3 (montana, viticella) chop hard in Feb. Cool feet, hot head. This guide covers when and how to sow Clematis, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Moderate
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Clematis
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Fertile, moisture-retentive soil with support to climb
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Roots cool and shaded, top in sun
- Sowing depth
- Plant rootball level; lean toward the support
- Spacing
- Allow 1–3 m per plant
- Sowing
- Plant 8 cm deeper than the pot to help recovery from wilt
- Growing
- Keep roots cool with a mulch or low planting; water well
- Harvest & upkeep
- Prune by group: Gp1 light after flowering; Gp2 light in spring; Gp3 hard in late winter
- Watch for
- Clematis wilt, aphids, slugs
Companion planting for Clematis
Grows well with:
Grow Clematis this year
Add Clematis to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Clematis FAQs
What grows well with Clematis?
Clematis grows well alongside Climbing Rose. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
How much sun does Clematis need?
Clematis prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Clematis easy to grow?
Moderate. Pruning depends on group — Group 3 (montana, viticella) chop hard in Feb. Cool feet, hot head.