Madame Julia Correvon clematis Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon' (Vt)

Water

When watering the Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon', commonly known as viticella clematis, it is important to ensure that the soil is kept consistently moist, particularly during the growing season. Water this clematis deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon of water per plant so that moisture reaches the deep roots. During hot or dry periods, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. During the winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce watering but do not let the soil completely dry out. Make sure that the plant has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.

Light

Viticella clematis thrives in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day, although it can tolerate partial shade. The ideal spot for this plant would have morning sun and afternoon shade to protect it from the intense heat of the day. This clematis prefers a site that offers some shelter from strong, drying winds.

Temperature

The viticella clematis prefers temperate climates and is quite hardy, with the ability to withstand winter temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the growing season. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant to thrive is between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Prune viticella clematis in late winter or early spring when buds begin to swell, as it blooms on the current year's growth. Cut back all the old stems to a pair of strong buds about 1 foot above the ground; this encourages a flush of fresh growth and rejuvenates the plant. Pruning is necessary to keep the plant in a manageable size and to promote vigorous flowering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon', commonly known as Viticella Clematis, thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.0. An ideal soil mix would include equal parts of garden loam, peat moss or compost, and perlite or vermiculite to ensure good drainage and aeration. A layer of mulch can help maintain moisture levels and keep the roots cool.

Repotting

Viticella Clematis, such as 'Madame Julia Correvon', generally does not require frequent repotting and can be done every 2 to 3 years. However, it's crucial to check annually if the roots have outgrown the current container, and repotting should be done in the spring before the active growth starts.

Humidity & Misting

Viticella Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon' is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels but prefers moderate conditions. No specific humidity level is required, but ensuring good air circulation around the plant can help prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Viticella Clematis by a sunny window; ensure support for climbing.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun/part shade with roots shaded and provide climbing support.

• Hardiness zone

  4-11 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon' begins its lifecycle as a dormant bare-root plant or container-grown plant before being planted in well-drained soil during spring or fall. After planting, it enters a growth phase where it develops a strong root system and vines start to climb, aided by their twining leaf petioles. The plant then matures and enters the flowering stage in late spring to early summer, showcasing its vivid, wine-red flowers through to early autumn. Following the blooming period, the plant produces feathery seed heads which can self-sow under optimal conditions, creating new plants. In late autumn to winter, the clematis goes dormant, with the above-ground vegetation dying back, especially in colder climates; however, the root system remains alive underground. Each spring, the clematis will resurge from its roots, repeating its life cycle by producing new shoots that will grow, flower, and eventually go dormant again.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Clematis 'Madame Julia Correvon', commonly referred to as viticella Clematis, is best propagated through layering, typically in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. This method involves bending a stem to the ground and covering a portion of it with soil, leaving the tip exposed. The covered section should be wounded or slightly nicked, then coated with rooting hormone to encourage root development. Pegging the stem down can ensure contact with the soil, and it may be necessary to use a rock or a wire hoop for this purpose. Within a few months, roots should form at the point of contact with the soil. Once the new plant is well-rooted, usually seen by new growth from the tip, it can be severed from the mother plant and transplanted to a desired location.