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Really hope someone sees this. I have just had to cut back my very old clematis only to discover that the reason it was not doing well is due to the fact that the main stem is hollow and there is a huge ants nest in the middle of it :(
I am going to cut back as far as I dare, I have some excellent compost I can feed it with but any other suggestions gratefully received.
Caroline in Jersey
Edit:-
I am pleased to say it has survived the major surgery - photos to follow if the forum allows
Cin J
Look what has sprouted...Plants are amazing :)
There you go Germain, a clematis doing what comes naturally, pushing up new shoots from the ground, when it has had it's head cut off! So glad the outcome has been positive. I would cut this shoot back as well early next year to see if you can get some more. It feels horrible, but one won't be enough. I cut all my late flowering clematis back to about 12 inches from the ground in the spring, buds or no buds! It's harsh, but they grow like crazy, putting loads of new shoots up and flower their socks off within a few months of being cut. Obviously you wouldn't do this to the montana or alpina types which flower very early in the year. Do you know which variety this one is?
bye for now
You have to be cruel to be kind - well it worked beautifully this time!!
Thrilled for you + looking forward to seeing it in full flower next year!!
'In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks' John Muir.
Excuse wobbily dyslexic spelling!