Achieve Beautiful and Lush Clematis Plants with Proper Planting Techniques. Pruning Techniques1 This group of clematis produce their flowers directly from old stems and, therefore, pruning must not be done until right after all flowering has been completed. Prune this group by removing all dead and weak stems immediately after flowering. Large established plants over 15 feet are normally not pruned, especially if they are growing in trees. All stems at this time should be tied into position on their trellis or other host. Also, if the Clematis has outgrown their space the correct and only time to prune to size is right after flowering is done. After pruning new growth will b2 In this group, all the first flowering comes from last season's ripened stems. In early Spring watch for swelling leaf buds beginning to show. Cut all dead material off above these swelling buds. Be sure all growth is tied to trellis at this time. Do not tie too tightly, so growth can begin and not be hampered by tying too tight or cracking these stems.3 This group blooms later and from new growth. This group should be pruned in February or March as new leaf buds begin to show low on the plant. All dead material above these buds should be removed at this time. Clean out any old foliage or foliage with mildew at this time also.The Roots Run DeepClematis roots are long and run deep and like it cool and damp, but not soggy. A good idea is to plant annuals around the base of the clematis, plant a low-growing shrub to shade the roots, or mulch the ground around the base of the clematis plant to help keep the soil and roots cool.Stake the plant and if possible wrap a piece of screen loosely around this to prevent animals from breaking or eating off the stem for the first year. The stake should be placed toward the trellis, to train the plant to its permanent support.Keep Your Clematis Well WateredKeep your clematis well watered, do not let it dry out. In years to come, always soak well once a week in dry weather. Feed twice a year with a balanced granular fertilizer, or a good water-soluble fertilizer that will get to the plant much quicker.Prune your clematis the first spring after planting to 10 - 12 inches. This is very important to get your plant off to low branching and heavier flowering over the whole clematis vine.Apply mulch around the base of your clematis through the winter dormant months. With proper care your clematis plant will give you much enjoyment for many years!The Many Ways Clematis Can Be UsedGrow on all types of fences, and even stone walls.Train to grow up a tree trunk, tree stumps and rock piles.Use as a ground cover.Frame around porches and other entrances.Grow up unsightly utility and light poles.Screen unwanted views.Grow along with a climbing rose.Grow through shrubs of all kinds.Grow clematis in a container on a trellis or other support.Grow as a cut flower or float flowers in a bowl.Clematis can be planted in the garden most any month the soil can be worked up.An established clematis will live for years with normal care.