Why do I get lots of fuzzy seed pods on my clematis and no blooms?
I have a clematis that has been planted for at least 7 years now. Originally it bloomed beautifully. The last 2 years it has produced very few blooms. It is covered in buds that look like they will become blooms but then they go straight to the fuzzy seed pod stage. This is a late blooming clematis and I cut it back in late fall after the vines die. The vine is healthy and abundant every year. I have an early bloomer in a different location that is beginning to do the same thing. A friend told me to add some lime to the soil. I did that 2 days ago. Any other suggestions?
Yes, I have them both planted where they get lots of sun. I cut them back to a few inches above the ground and add mulch at the end of the fall. The ground around them is kept mulched. They are planted at the base of posts wrapped in stock wire. The vines come back strong every year and cover the posts.
Are you following the basics for clematis?
1. Clematis like full sun, but like to keep their feet cool…put plenty of mulch over the base of the plant.
2. After the flowers bloom, pinch them off.
3. Cut the plant down to the base at the end of autumn.
Bishop Bloomer ( Stopping Yourself) Bethel Family Sow A Seed