Clematis Little Bas Clematis 'Little Bas' (Vt)

Water

The Clematis 'Little Bas', commonly known as Traveller's Joy, should be watered regularly to maintain moist, but not waterlogged, soil. During the growing season, typically from spring to early fall, water the plant with about 1 gallon per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature. During hot, dry spells, increase watering frequency to prevent the soil from drying out completely. During the dormant season in late fall and winter, reduce watering to prevent root rot, ensuring the soil is not too damp. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.

Light

Traveller's Joy thrives best in full sun to part shade conditions. It prefers a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day, but it can also tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. Avoid deep shade, as this will reduce flowering and can lead to leggy growth.

Temperature

Traveller's Joy is hardy and can survive in a temperature range from about 20°F to 85°F. However, the ideal temperature conditions for optimal growth and flowering are between 55°F and 75°F. Ensure the plant is protected from extreme cold and frost to prevent damage to the vines and roots.

Pruning

Traveller's Joy benefits from pruning to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, removing dead or weak stems and cutting back the remaining stems to strong buds. Prune again after the first flush of flowers if a second bloom is desired. This also helps to maintain the plant's shape and size.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Clematis 'Little Bas', commonly known as Clematis, thrives in a well-draining soil mix with plenty of organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. A balanced pH level, slightly on the alkaline side, between 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for this plant. To improve drainage and structure, you can add perlite or coarse sand to the mix. Mulching with organic materials will help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Repotting

Clematis plants, including the 'Little Bas', should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to replenish the soil and provide room for root growth. Younger plants may benefit from more frequent repotting, especially if they are growing rapidly or the soil quality is degrading. Repot in the spring before the active growth phase begins.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis, including the 'Little Bas', generally tolerate the average outdoor humidity levels well and do not require specific humidity adjustments. However, they do enjoy a moist environment, so they will appreciate being planted in a location that isn't excessively dry.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Clematis in bright, indirect light and support with a trellis.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to part shade, with roots shaded and ample climbing space.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis 'Little Bas' (Clematis viticella), commonly known as Italian Clematis, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in favorable conditions of warm soil and adequate moisture. Once the seedling emerges, it enters a vegetative stage, focusing on leaf development and root establishment. As the plant matures, it develops a robust climbing habit, using tendrils to anchor and climb up supports. The adult stage is marked by the production of flowers, typically starting in early summer and continuing until early autumn, showcasing a profusion of small, bell-shaped blooms. After flowering, the plant sets seed, which can be dispersed by wind or animal activity, completing the reproductive cycle. During winter, the above-ground parts of the plant die back if exposed to frost, but regrowth occurs from the root system in the following spring, continuing its perennial cycle.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-summer

• Propogation: Clematis 'Little Bas' (Vt), also known as Virgin's Bower, is generally propagated through stem cuttings. This method is often considered the most popular due to its effectiveness and relative ease. To propagate by cuttings, one should ideally take semi-hardwood stem sections of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, which include at least two sets of leaf nodes, in the late spring or early summer when the plant's growth is vigorous. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a bright location with indirect sunlight and maintained at a consistent moisture level to encourage root development. With proper care, the cuttings can establish a strong root system within a few weeks to a couple of months, and once rooted, they can be transplanted to their final location.