Clematis Constance Clematis 'Constance' (A)

Water

The Clematis, commonly known as the Queen of the Vines, requires consistent moisture and should be watered once a week, making sure to provide about one gallon of water. During the growing season, if there is less than one inch of rainfall per week, additional watering is necessary. It is essential to avoid overhead watering; instead, water at the base of the plant to prevent fungal diseases. In hot, dry weather, you may need to increase the frequency to twice per week, while in cooler, wetter conditions, you can reduce watering accordingly. Always check the soil moisture level to ensure it is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Light

Clematis thrives best in a spot that offers full sun to part shade, with at least six hours of sunlight a day. Planting it where the flowers can bask in the sunlight while the roots are shaded by other plants or a mulch layer is ideal. Ensuring the Queen of the Vines gets adequate light will contribute to more vigorous growth and abundant flowering.

Temperature

Clematis 'Constance', or Queen of the Vines, can tolerate temperatures down to about 20°F but performs best when the temperature ranges between 55°F and 70°F. It's crucial to protect the plant from harsh winter winds and severe frosts. In summer, temperatures above 80°F might slow down its growth, so it's important to offer some afternoon shade in excessively hot climates to prevent heat stress.

Pruning

Pruning encourages the Queen of the Vines to produce abundant blooms and helps maintain plant health. It should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Clematis 'Constance' falls into Pruning Group 2, which means it flowers on both old and new wood; therefore, only light pruning to remove dead or weak stems is needed. After the first bloom, you can also lightly prune to shape the plant and encourage a second flush of flowers.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis 'Constance' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil mix for this Clematis, often referred to as the Queen of Climbers, should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, and it should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Incorporating a handful of perlite or vermiculite can improve drainage, while peat moss or leaf mold can help maintain moisture levels.

Repotting

The Queen of Climbers should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to prevent the root system from becoming pot-bound and to replenish nutrients in the soil. It's best to repot in late winter or early spring before the active growth period begins, using a fresh soil mix as described previously.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis 'Constance' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. To achieve the most favorable conditions, aim for a humidity level between 50% to 70%. If the air is too dry, especially indoors, consider using a humidifier or placing a water tray nearby to increase moisture levels around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright, indirect light and cool temperatures.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to part shade, shield roots with mulch or shade.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Clematis 'Constance' begins with germination from seed, though commercially, it's commonly propagated via cuttings or layering to ensure the offspring plants maintain the characteristics of the parent. After planting, it enters a vegetative stage where it focuses on root and foliage growth, establishing a strong foundation for future blooming. As a perennial, it enters a period of dormancy during the colder months, where above-ground growth ceases and the plant conserves energy. Upon the return of warmer temperatures in spring, Clematis 'Constance' resumes growth and enters the flowering stage, where it produces an abundance of pink, nodding flowers that attract pollinators and garden admirers alike. After the flowering period, it produces seed heads if pollination has occurred, which can be used for propagation or left to self-sow. The cycle continues annually with periods of active growth and dormancy in synchronization with the seasons.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Clematis 'Constance', often known for its vibrant flowers and climbing habit, can be propagated most commonly through layering. This technique is best performed in the spring, as the plant emerges from dormancy and begins to produce new growth. To propagate Clematis 'Constance' by layering, a healthy stem is bent to the ground and a section is buried in the soil, leaving the tip exposed. To encourage rooting, make a small incision or remove a strip of bark from the stem at the point where it contacts the soil. Secure this section with a stake or a u-shaped pin to keep it in place, and cover it with soil to a depth of approximately 2 inches (about 5 centimeters). It's essential to keep the soil moist until the buried stem develops roots, which may take several months. Once a strong root system is established, the new plant can be severed from the parent plant and transplanted to a desired location.