Clematis & Blue Light Plants

Appearance

• Clematis plants are green vines with flowers. Different varieties of clematis have different leaf shapes, flower colors and flower shape. "Blue Light" clematis has pale blue to violet-blue flowers with a double layer of petals. They have large flowers with 5- to 6-inch diameters. They reach heights of 6 to 8 feet tall and can spread 3 to 6 feet.

Climate

• Clematis is usually hardy to USDA Hardiness zone 3. Clematis "Blue Light" plants are hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8. Zones 4 through 8 have minimum winter temperatures between -30 degrees Fahrenheit and 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Clematis plants grow well in full sun or partial shade, and prefer soils with good water drainage.

Care

• Clematis plants need regular waterings, especially during hot and dry weather. The American Clematis Society recommends watering them deeply rather than shallowly. Clematis plants also require rich soil, so they need fertilizer occasionally. A balanced fertilizer during the spring will help keep them healthy. Keep the soil pH neutral or slightly acidic by testing the soil pH regularly and using additives to keep it at or just below 7.

Growth

• Clematis plants drop their leaves during the cool seasons and then grow new leaves during spring. "Blue Light" clematis flowers from June through September, although it sometimes stops blooming during very hot summer weather. Clematis plants grow best with support systems such as trellises, fences, railings and other plants. During late winter or early spring, it is fine to prune clematis vines to about a foot tall. They will grow long again during the warm seasons.