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Although a common name for clematis is said to be "Old Man's Beard," I have never heard them referred to by any name
other than the scientific name Clematis. The numerous varieties of clematis available are astounding. When I was searching
Google for information, I could not believe how many sites were dedicated to this plant. Most notably from my search, I found that the
flowering time for each clematis is dependant upon its flowering/pruning group.
Group A or 1--These flower in spring on the growth from the previous year and should be pruned one month after bloom.
Group B or 2--These clematis are large-flowered, blooming in spring on last season's growth as well as on new
growth. They can be pruned in fall.
Group C or 3--These are late-blooming, flowering in summer and fall on new growth. Prune this group in spring before
new growth begins.
For Iowa, clematis can be difficult to successfully grow due to our harsh winters. A good mulch is an absolute necessity in many
instances. In my garden, I have had very few clematis succeed the first year with purple-colored varieties performing best. If you
are not adverse to risking the possibility of a plant expiring before it blooms, though, you will be well rewarded by the surviving
clematis' beauty, large flowers, and ability to cover bare walls or hide unsightly areas in your garden. After a clematis becomes
established, however, it will be relatively carefree.
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