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:

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).

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.

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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