How to Prune Clematis

There is a profusion of Clematis varieties where pruning groups are split to suit the range of species that are available.

Group 1- Early Flowering

Includes those that flower during the spring on the previous seasons growth. No regular pruning is required for group 1 clematis. Instead, prune immediately after flowering in mid to late spring once all the risk of frost has passed. Pruning should only be undertaken to neaten the overall appearance of your plant, deadheading faded flowers and removing old, dead or diseased wood and foliage.

Group 2- Large Flowering Cultivars

Include those that flower during May and June and that develop on the previous year’s growth. These varieties should be pruned during late winter or early spring and again after the flowering period during the summer. Pruning should only be undertaken to remove faded flowers and to remove old, dead or diseased growth.

Group 3- Mid-Late Flowering

Include those that flower during late summer on the current season’s growth. Prune during late winter to early spring. They should be pruned back to around 30cm (12”) above ground level. If varieties belonging to this group are left unpruned, they will become congested and will look unkempt and unruly.

How to Prune Clematis