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Post by Auricula on Oct 27, 2008 14:16:07 GMT
Hi I have finally got round to working out exactly where my posts and ropes will go. I want to have a series of posts about 8' high, with ropes linking them. Along the ropes I want to grow roses and clematis. The site is South / South west facing and the soil is a very good loam, just on the acid end of neutral ( hope that's ok for clems!) I live in West Cornwall so do not have frosts but do have a fair amount (!!) of rain and mist. The ground is quite free draining and that part of the garden is quite sheltered. I need suggestions for suitable clematis' to grow, and if possible pruning advice ( as they will hopefully be mingling with the roses. Thanking you in excitement  |
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Post by Plocket on Oct 27, 2008 14:27:45 GMT
Hia Auricula! Well it sounds as though you have pretty good conditions for clematis. I grow them in slightly acidic soil but they are quite happy. And free draining is perfect although they are thirsty plants so in dry summers they will need some extra help from you. There are so many clematis to choose from you should probably start thinking about what roses you want, and then consider what colour clematis would go with them. There's little point in planting a deep pink rose with Clematis Princess Diana because they would blend together. You also need to consider the pruning time for your roses which I guess is spring. That's fine for Group 3 clematis so you'd probably be best going with them. Group 1s don't require pruning and Group 2s should be pruned after flowering in early summer so they are more difficult to have with roses. Shrubby clematis are lovely with roses I always think - the integrifolias need a bit of support and the flowers are quite delicate. The plant needs cutting back in the spring but basically the plant grows from the ground each year. They come if various heights too. Have a look too at the Viticellas - they are really good do-ers and there are lots available. I personally like Etoile Violette, Madame Julia Correvon and Purpurea Plena Elegans (a more unusual flower), but there are lots to choose from. If you need a bit more help let me know what colours you prefer and I'll try and suggest plants you might be able to find at your garden centre/nursery. Alternatively I can recommend Sheila Chapman for buying online - www.sheilachapman.comPx |
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Post by Auricula on Oct 27, 2008 14:30:49 GMT
Oooh thanks Plocket - I knew you'd be my saviour  I will certainly firm up my thoughts and get back to you soon  |
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Post by Plocket on Oct 27, 2008 14:39:28 GMT
Wonderful! I've bookmarked this so will see when you reply |
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