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How to Propagate Clematis
PROPAGATING CLEMATIS
Clematis are normally propagated from cuttings, seed or layering. Different
clematis re re-act differently to different methods.
TAKING CUTTINGS
This method is guaranteed to reproduce plants exactly the same as the
parent plant. Common clematis which can be grown from cuttings are:
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EASY FROM CUTTINGS
Alpinas Montanas
Clematis Tangutica
Clematis tibetana
'Bill MacKenzie' |
MODERATELY EASY FROM CUTTINGS
Macropetalas Viticellas
Large-flowered hybrids |
EASY FROM CUTTINGS
Clematis armandii Texensis |
Cuttings
should be taken in June from stems grown that year (not woody stems
grown the previous season), but avoid the very soft part of the stem at
the top end. The cuttings described below are often referred to as 'internodal'
cuttings (taken between two leaf joints).
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STEP 1
Cut the main stem about 5cm (2in) below a leaf joint - use a
clean, sharp knife to avoid crushing the stem when cutting.
STEP 2
Cut the main stem as near as possible just above the leaf joint.
See diagram to the left to illustrate the cutting. |
STEP 3
Cut away the leaves and stalk from one side of the stem and trim
off any excess leaves from the other side so that only two
leaves remain.
This
trimming process will reduce loss of water through the leaves of
the cutting. |
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Having created the clematis cutting, dip the base of the cutting into hormone
rooting powder (to help the cutting produce roots), and insert it into a
small pot filled with potting compost. Don't force the cutting into the
compost - make a small hole first, place the cutting in the hole and
gently firm the compost round the stem.
The cutting should be placed in the compost so that all of the main stem is
covered. Only the very top of the stem and the leaf and stalk should be
above the compost. Water well (preferably from the base) then label and
date the cutting.
To avoid the cutting loosing too much water place it in a covered
propagator, or cover the pot with a plastic bag. Place the covered
cutting in a light protected place but not one exposed to direct sunlight.
Plants grown this way will be ready for planting out after a year (re-pot into
larger pots as the roots fill the pot) and will flower after another year.
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