(Clematis 'Comtesse De Bouchard')
Clematis 'Comtesse De Bouchard' Feeding Instructions
When planting a Clematis, it is important to build up soil with organic amendments (such as composted cow manure or mushroom compost) to retain moisture since the vine prefers a moist soil. A monthly feeding of liquid fertilizer or a complete organic fertilizer gives the vine the boost it needs for good growth and best flowering performance. There are slow-release organic fertilizers available in which a one-time application will last for 3 to 6 months. It's long been said that Clematis prefers their feet in the shade and their tops in the sun - this is a myth.
Clematis 'Comtesse De Bouchard' Pruning Instructions
Comtesse De Bouchard Clematis produces all flowers on the current season's growth. Therefore, before new growth begins to emerge in Spring, prune severely down to a leaf bud within one foot to eighteen inches above soil level. Also remove any old or mildewed foliage from around the plant at this time. Your pruned Clematis will grow back to the height it attained last year, and then some. You may also prune this Clematis back to about 3 feet in height in Fall, when leaves are brown, though you can leave the vine alone over the Winter.
Clematis 'Comtesse De Bouchard' Pest Instructions
Clematis are generally low maintenance in regard to pest's and diseases, however, Clematis wilt and powdery mildew can show up. To control Clematis wilt, immediately remove and destroy infected stems that begin to wilt (not from lack of watering), pruning below the point of infection. To discourage powdery mildew, plant in full to mostly sun and space plants for adequate air circulation. Morning sun is a must t dry morning dew from foliage. Water at the base of the Clematis vine to avoid wetting leaves when watering. During the season, pick off any diseased leaves where practical, and remove and destroy severely infected plants.