Clematis Clematis 'Dazzle' (EL)

Water

Clematis, commonly known as the leather flower, requires consistent moisture to thrive, but it's important to avoid waterlogging. During the growing season, water the plant once a week with about one gallon of water, ensuring you're reaching the roots without wetting the foliage to prevent disease. In hotter, dryer periods, increase watering to twice a week, monitoring the soil moisture level closely. Clematis prefers a deep watering to encourage deep root growth, but always allow the top inch of the soil to dry out before watering again.

Light

Clematis, or leather flower, thrives in conditions where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight daily; however, the plant's base and roots should be kept shaded. An ideal spot is one where the plant's vines can climb towards the sun while the lower parts are protected by lower plantings or mulch. Direct morning sunlight with afternoon shade or filtered sun throughout the day is perfect for optimal growth.

Temperature

Clematis, or leather flower, grows best in temperate climates with temperatures ranging between 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. These plants can survive winter temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit but may need protective mulching or coverings. The ideal growing temperatures for clematis are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Pruning clematis, or leather flower, encourages strong growth and flowering. For Clematis 'Dazzle', which typically falls under pruning group 3, cut back the vines to about one to two feet from the ground in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This stimulates the plant to produce shoots from below soil level, ensuring a robust display of flowers in the summer and fall.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis prefers a well-draining soil mix with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of about 7.0 to 7.5. To create an ideal soil mix, combine two parts loam, one part sharp sand, and one part well-rotted compost or manure to provide fertility and improve drainage. Mulch around the base to keep roots cool and moist.

Repotting

Clematis, also known as the Queen of the Vines, generally does not need to be repotted frequently. Repotting every 3-4 years should suffice to refresh the soil and provide more space for its root growth.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis plants thrive best in outdoor humidity levels, which naturally fluctuate. Ideally, they prefer a moderate humidity level but can tolerate a range of conditions as long as the roots are kept cool and moist.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light and ensure proper support for climbing.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun or part shade with roots shaded and ample climbing support.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Clematis 'Dazzle' (Early Large-Flowered Clematis) begins with seed germination, typically in spring, when temperatures and soil conditions become suitable. Following germination, the seedling emerges and starts to develop its root system and foliage, eventually growing into a juvenile vine. As the vine matures, it enters a vegetative growth phase, producing long climbing stems with leaves, and it will typically require support from a trellis or similar structure to grow optimally. Once mature enough, the Clematis 'Dazzle' enters the reproductive stage, blooming in early summer to display its large, vibrant flowers, which can reoccur in late summer or early autumn if conditions allow. After pollination, the plant produces fruits known as achenes, which contain seeds that are dispersed by wind, completing the cycle. The Clematis 'Dazzle' then goes into a period of dormancy during the colder months before resuming growth in the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Clematis 'Dazzle' is commonly propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings which is a popular method for many clematis varieties. To do this, you'll want to take cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, from healthy, non-flowering stems in late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is vigorous. Each cutting should have at least two sets of leaves. Before planting, the cut end of the cutting can be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cuttings in a sandy potting mix, ensuring at least one set of leaves is above the soil surface. The pot should then be placed in a warm, brightly lit area but out of direct sunlight, and kept moist until the cutting has rooted, which typically takes a few weeks. Once the cuttings have established a good root system, they can be potted up individually and grown on until they are strong enough to be transplanted into the garden.