Clematis Clematis Diana's Delight = 'Evipo026' (PBR) (EL)

Water

Clematis 'Diana's Delight' should be watered deeply once a week, providing about an inch of water each time to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During hotter, drier periods, watering frequency should increase to twice per week. Avoid wetting the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal diseases, and instead water at the base of the plant. A total of 5 to 10 gallons per month is usually sufficient, but it's crucial to adjust based on rainfall and soil conditions to maintain consistent soil moisture.

Light

Clematis 'Diana's Delight' thrives in a location with full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot is one where the plant receives 6 or more hours of sunlight daily, preferably morning sun with afternoon shade. Ensure that the plant's roots are shaded either by other low-growing plants or a layer of mulch, as this will keep them cool and promote healthy growth.

Temperature

Clematis 'Diana's Delight' grows best in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. The plant can generally tolerate minimum winter temperatures down to 20°F and summer highs up to 90°F. Avoid exposing it to temperatures outside of this range; extended exposure to extreme cold or heat can be detrimental to its health.

Pruning

Clematis 'Diana's Delight' benefits from pruning to promote vigorous growth and enhance flowering. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, removing dead or damaged stems and cutting the remaining stems back to a set of strong buds about 1 to 2 feet above ground level. Prune again right after the early summer flowering, if needed, to shape the plant and encourage a second bloom.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis Diana's Delight thrives in well-draining, moisture-retentive soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of loam, compost, and well-aged manure works well, enhancing both drainage and fertility to support its growth.

Repotting

Clematis Diana's Delight typically requires repotting every 2-3 years, or once it has outgrown its current container, to ensure adequate space for root growth and overall plant health.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis Diana's Delight prefers a moderate level of humidity; although it can tolerate some variation, extreme dryness can be harmful, so aim to maintain a consistent environment.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light with ample air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade; shelter roots with mulch or plants.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis 'Diana's Delight', a deciduous perennial vine, begins its life cycle as seeds that germinate in moist, well-drained soil with some protection from intense sunlight. Seedlings develop a sturdy root system while sending out initial shoots that seek vertical support. As the plant matures, it develops woody stems with a profusion of leaves, and by the second or third year, it starts to produce the distinctive blue-mauve flowers with creamy yellow anthers for which 'Diana's Delight' is known, blooming prolifically from late spring to early autumn. After pollination, typically by bees and other insects, the flowers give way to plumy seed heads, which, if conditions allow, will disseminate seeds for propagation. The above-ground portions of the plant die back in winter, while the root system lies dormant until the warmth of spring stimulates new growth. The plant enters a perennial cycle of flowering and growth, with proper pruning after the first bloom enhancing the potential for a second flowering period in the same season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Clematis 'Diana's Delight' is commonly propagated through softwood cuttings, which is the most popular method for this variety. During late spring to early summer, when the plant's new growth is green and flexible, cut a segment of stem about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length. The cut should be made just below a node, and the lower leaves should be removed. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of successful root development. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite or a similar well-draining medium, ensuring the node where the leaves were removed is buried. The pot should be placed in a warm, well-lit area but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the cutting. Maintain a humid environment by covering the pot with a plastic bag or dome to prevent moisture loss, and keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged. Roots will typically develop within a few weeks, after which the new clematis can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden.