Alpine Clematis Clematis alpina 'Pamela Jackman' (A)

Water

Alpine Clematis should be watered deeply once a week, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly moistened, which often equates to about 1 gallon of water for each plant. During periods of drought or extreme heat, the frequency may need to increase to twice a week. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease, so applying water directly to the base of the plant is ideal. During the winter months, reduce watering since the plant will be dormant and won't require as much moisture. Consistent watering is key to maintain a healthy plant, especially when it is establishing during its first year after planting.

Light

Alpine Clematis thrives best in a location that receives partial shade to full sun. However, the plant's roots and base prefer to stay shaded while the foliage and flowers should get some sun. A north or east-facing spot is excellent to provide the right balance of light, or alternatively, planting under a deciduous tree can offer the desired sun exposure while naturally shading the root area.

Temperature

Alpine Clematis prefers a temperate climate and can survive in conditions where temperatures range from about 20 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They may tolerate a brief period of colder temperatures down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit, but the ideal growing temperatures are between 55 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect the plant from extreme cold by mulching around the base during the winter months.

Pruning

Alpine Clematis benefits from pruning to encourage vigorous growth and flowering. Prune immediately after the blooming period in late spring or early summer, as this species blooms on the previous year's growth. Cut back the stems that have just finished flowering to just above a strong set of buds. Pruning also helps to maintain a desirable shape and remove any dead or weak stems. Generally, a light pruning each year is sufficient for this variety.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Alpine Clematis 'Pamela Jackman' prefers well-draining soil with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5. A good soil mix would be one-part loamy soil, one-part compost or well-rotted manure, and a handful of perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage. Mulching with organic matter can help maintain soil moisture and temperature.

Repotting

Alpine Clematis 'Pamela Jackman' needs repotting every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. It is best done in late winter or early spring, before active growth begins.

Humidity & Misting

Alpine Clematis 'Pamela Jackman' tolerates a wide range of humidity levels but thrives in conditions that are not excessively dry. Average outdoor humidity is suitable, without the need for additional misting or humidity controls.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Use bright, indirect light and cool temps.

• Outdoor

  Provide support, mulch well, partial sun.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis alpina 'Pamela Jackman', commonly known as Alpine Clematis, initiates its life cycle as a seed which, when sown in well-draining soil, germinates to establish a root system and a small shoot. The seedling grows rapidly, developing vine-like stems and leaves, relying on surrounding structures or supports to climb and gain access to sunlight. As it matures, the Alpine Clematis enters a vegetative stage marked by the growth of more leaves and stems, preparing the plant for the flowering stage. In early spring to late spring, the mature Alpine Clematis produces bell-shaped, blue-purplish flowers that attract pollinators, leading to the production of seed heads after the blooms have faded. After pollination, seeds develop and are eventually dispersed, either by wind or through human intervention, completing the reproductive component of the life cycle. Throughout its lifecycle, the Alpine Clematis may enter a period of dormancy during cold winter months, resuming active growth with the return of warmer temperatures in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: The Clematis alpina 'Pamela Jackman', commonly known as Alpine Clematis, is typically propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. The suitable time to take these cuttings is during the summer, after the plant has flowered and new growth is somewhat mature yet still slightly flexible. To propagate, select a healthy stem and make a cutting about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) long, ensuring it includes at least two sets of leaves. The bottom cut should be just below a leaf node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to avoid rot when planted. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth, then insert it into a pot filled with a mix of peat and perlite. Moisten the medium and cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. The cutting should be kept in indirect light and consistently warm temperatures until roots have developed, which can take several weeks. After rooting, the new Clematis plant can be gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions and then planted in the garden.