Clematis Michiko Clematis × cartmanii Michiko = 'Evipo044' (PBR) (Fo)

Water

For the Clematis Joe, it's important to maintain consistent moisture during the growing season, particularly during hot, dry periods. Water the plant deeply once a week, supplying about one gallon of water, which allows moisture to reach the deeper roots. During high heat or in container gardens, checking the soil moisture more frequently may be necessary, potentially requiring additional waterings. Adjust the watering frequency based on weather conditions and soil drainage to prevent waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.

Light

Clematis Joe thrives best in a location that offers full sun to partial shade. Plant it where it can receive at least six hours of sunlight a day, although some afternoon shade can be beneficial in hotter climates. The ideal spot for this clematis would provide morning sunlight and protection from the intense heat of the late afternoon.

Temperature

The Clematis Joe is hardy and can survive temperatures as low as 20°F but prefers the temperature range between 55°F and 75°F for optimal growth. Extreme temperatures on either end should be avoided to prevent stress or damage to the plant. Ensure it's planted in an area that doesn't experience temperature fluctuations that exceed these parameters for best results.

Pruning

For the Clematis Joe, pruning helps to maintain its shape, encourage growth, and improve flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring, when the plant is still dormant, by removing weak or dead stems and cutting back the remaining stems to strong buds. This clematis belongs to Pruning Group 1, which implies minimal pruning; it typically flowers on the previous year's growth, so over-pruning could reduce blooming. Pruning every year or every few years will keep the plant rejuvenated and flowering well.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis 'Michiko' thrives best in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The ideal soil mix can be created by combining two parts garden soil, one part compost or well-rotted manure, and one part perlite or coarse sand to aid drainage. Adjust the pH accordingly if the native soil is too acidic or alkaline.

Repotting

Clematis 'Michiko' should be repotted every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate the growth of the root system. The best time to repot is in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis 'Michiko' will flourish at average outdoor humidity levels, without requiring any special humidity modifications. It does not have specific humidity requirements, making it adaptable to most temperate climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light, keep soil moist, and provide support for climbing.

• Outdoor

  Choose a sunny location, ensure good soil drainage, and provide a structure to climb.

• Hardiness zone

  7-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis Michiko enters its life cycle as a dormant seed which, when conditions are favorable, germinates to produce a small seedling. The seedling develops into a young plant, characterized by rapid vegetative growth where it establishes its root system and begins to produce climbing stems and leaves. After reaching maturity, which can vary but often takes a couple of years, Clematis Michiko enters the flowering stage, producing fragrant, creamy-white blooms in early to mid-spring. Post bloom, the plant sets seeds within fluffy seed heads, which are then dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing for potential propagation and continuation of the life cycle. As a perennial, Michiko will go through a period of dormancy during colder seasons, typically shedding leaves, to conserve energy before re-sprouting in the next growing season. Over multiple years, the plant will repeat its growth, flowering, and dormancy phases, gradually increasing in size and the number of blooms.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Early spring

• The Clematis × cartmanii 'Michiko', commonly known as the Michiko Clematis, is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. This method is favored due to its simplicity and relatively high success rate. To propagate by this method, a cutting of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) in length is taken from a healthy parent plant during the summer months when the wood is semi-ripe. The cut should be made just below a set of leaves or a node, and the lower leaves are removed to reduce moisture loss. The base of the cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a well-draining soil medium. The cutting is kept under conditions of high humidity, such as under a plastic cover, until roots have formed and it can be transplanted.