Clematis Ville de Lyon Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' (LL)

Water

Clematis 'Ville de Lyon', commonly known as clematis, should be watered deeply but not too frequently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. In general, water the clematis with about 1 gallon of water once a week during the growing season, adjusting for rainfall, as the plant does not tolerate drought well. During hot, dry periods, increase watering to twice a week, ensuring that the water reaches the roots without splashing the leaves to avoid disease. In the winter, reduce watering considerably, only ensuring the root ball does not dry out completely. It is important to avoid overhead watering to prevent leaf and stem diseases.

Light

Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' thrives in a spot where its roots are shaded and cool, but the foliage and flowers receive at least six hours of sunlight daily. The best location would be one where the base of the plant can be covered with mulch or shaded by low plants, while the upper part benefits from the sun. Avoid full shade areas as this clematis requires ample sunlight for optimal growth and flowering.

Temperature

The Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' can survive in a broad range of temperatures, from a low of about 20 degrees Fahrenheit to a high of around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for promoting healthy growth and flowering is between 55 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Protecting the plant from extreme cold and frost is crucial, especially during its dormant winter phase.

Pruning

Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' should be pruned to encourage vigorous growth and flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before active growth starts, removing dead or weak stems. This clematis falls into Pruning Group 3, which means it flowers on the current year's growth. Cut the plant back to about a foot from the ground, leaving two sets of strong buds on each stem. Pruning promotes healthy new shoots and a more robust display of blooms in the summer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis requires a well-draining soil mix with a pH around 6.0 to 7.0. A good recipe for Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' includes one part garden soil, one part compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Mulching can help maintain an even soil temperature and moisture level.

Repotting

'Ville de Lyon' Clematis, being a perennial vine, does not typically require frequent repotting. Repotting is usually done every 2 to 3 years or when the plant outgrows its current container. It is best to repot in the spring before active growth begins.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' prefers a moderate humidity level but is quite adaptable. It can thrive in the varying humidity conditions typically found outdoors. Indoor humidity levels should be kept average, but specific humidity control is usually not necessary for this plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide support, bright indirect light, and keep in cool room.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to part shade with roots covered and ample support.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis 'Ville de Lyon' begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in spring under suitable conditions of moisture and temperature. The seedling then develops into a young plant with a strong root system and a climbing stem, which seeks out support and grows rapidly. As it matures, in early to mid-summer, it produces large, vibrant red or carmine flowers with a central tuft of creamy yellow stamens, attracting pollinators. After pollination, seeds are formed in feathery, plume-like structures called achenes that facilitate dispersal by wind. The plant becomes dormant in late autumn, losing its leaves and retreating to the root system for the cold winter months. With the return of spring warmth, 'Ville de Lyon' clematis breaks dormancy, sprouting new shoots to commence the next growing season.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Clematis 'Ville de Lyon', also known simply as Clematis, is best propagated through stem cuttings. The optimal time for taking stem cuttings is in spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate via stem cuttings, one should select a healthy, non-flowering stem and cut a piece around 2-4 inches (approximately 5-10 cm) long that includes at least one pair of leaves or leaf nodes. The cut end should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and then placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting must be kept in a warm spot with indirect light and a consistent humidity level, often achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag, making sure to ventilate occasionally to prevent mold growth. In a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and can then be gradually acclimatized to normal conditions before being planted out.