Downy Clematis Clematis macropetala 'Wesselton' (A/d)

Water

Downy clematis prefers consistent moisture, so you should water it when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this will mean watering approximately once a week, but this can vary depending on climate and weather conditions. Thoroughly soak the soil around the plant ensuring that water reaches the root zone. During hotter and drier periods, you might need to water more frequently, possibly every few days. A good approach is to provide the plant with about 1 gallon of water during each watering session, but always adjust based on the plant's environment and the soil's moisture level.

Light

Downy clematis thrives in a location where it can receive about six hours of sunlight each day. It is best suited for a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade, as this will protect it from the intense heat of the midday sun. However, it can also do well in a spot with dappled shade throughout the day, particularly in hotter regions.

Temperature

Downy clematis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best when daytime temperatures are between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can survive winter temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for cooler climates. Ideally, keep it in conditions that avoid extreme heat, as prolonged exposure to temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plant.

Pruning

Downy clematis is pruned to promote healthy growth, shape the plant, and encourage abundant flowering. Prune in late winter or early spring before active growth begins, removing any dead or weak stems. This clematis flowers on old wood, so be cautious not to cut back this season’s flowering stems unless they are damaged. An annual pruning will suffice to maintain its shape and vitality.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Clematis, known for varieties like 'Wesselton', thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A good soil mix would blend loamy garden soil with compost and well-rotted manure to provide nutrients and improve drainage. For container growing, a mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite can help mimic these conditions.

Repotting

Clematis 'Wesselton' typically doesn't need frequent repotting and can be done every 2-3 years or when it has outgrown its current container. It's important to repot during the dormant period, usually in late winter or early spring.

Humidity & Misting

Clematis 'Wesselton' prefers average humidity levels, typically found in outdoor gardens, without the need for any special humidity adjustments. Adequate air circulation is crucial to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright indirect light, cool temperatures, and ample support for climbing.

• Outdoor

  Plant in sun to partial shade, provide support for climbing, and mulch the base.

• Hardiness zone

  3-9 USDA

Life cycle

Clematis macropetala 'Wesselton', commonly known as Downy Clematis, begins its life as a seed, which upon germination emerges into a seedling with distinct cotyledon leaves. As it grows, it enters a vegetative stage, developing long climbing stems and fibrous roots, with leaves arranged alternately along the stems. During the flowering stage, which occurs in mid-spring to early summer, the Clematis 'Wesselton' exhibits double or semi-double lilac-blue flowers with prominent creamy stamens. After pollination, the plant produces feathery seed heads, containing seeds which are dispersed by wind. Throughout the growing seasons, it continues to develop a robust root system and woody stems, with the plant entering a period of dormancy in winter. Each year, the cycle can repeat with the plant producing new shoots from the woody base in the spring, thus ensuring its perennial nature.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• Propogation: The most popular method of propagating Clematis macropetala 'Wesselton', commonly known as the Downy Clematis, is by softwood cuttings. This is typically done in early summer when the plant has new growth that is not yet hardened and still green. To propagate, one should select a healthy shoot and cut a 4 to 6-inch (about 10 to 15 cm) length, making sure there are at least 2 to 3 pairs of leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is placed in a well-draining potting mixture. Dipping the cut end into a rooting hormone before planting can encourage root growth. The pot should then be covered with plastic to maintain humidity, and placed in a bright, warm location out of direct sunlight. Roots usually develop within a few weeks to a couple of months, after which the new plants can be potted on.