Clematis and Wilt-Pruf

How Clematis Wilt Works

• Clematis wilt is a fungus that attacks the clematis plant from its root system. Visible damage to the plant will be apparent above ground; spots and lesions appear on the plant leaves and large parts or the entire plant will wilt away and die very quickly. This is actually occurring because the fungus is preventing the plant from being able to uptake nutrients or oxygen. The leaves and stems turning black and becoming brittle initially gives the impression that the plant is drying out, but in reality the fungus usually thrives below ground in excessively moist soil.

How Wilt Pruf Works

• Wilt Pruf forms a protective coating over plant leaves that prevents transpiration through the leaves and protects the leaves from wind and frost damage. This helps plants receiving little water maintain the water they have in their leaves and is good for plants growing in harsh weather environments. It is not effective on clematis plants for the prevention of clematis wilt, as the disease is based in the root system of the plant as opposed to its leaves and branches.

Uses of Wilt Pruf on Clematis

• Although Wilt Pruf will do nothing to prevent or cure clematis wilt, it can help prevent powdery mildew fungus from accumulating on clematis leaves. Powdery mildew is essentially the only disease other than clematis wilt that affects the clematis vine. Powdery mildew is generally not lethally dangerous for the clematis and usually causes aesthetic damage only. Still, Wilt Pruf will help to ensure that your clematis vine does not suffer from this somewhat unsightly fungus.

Clematis Wilt Care

• Wilt Pruf will not prevent clematis wilt, but actions can be taken to tend to the fungus. A commercial fungicide containing chlorothalonil or propiconazole will help prevent the disease from occurring, though results are not guaranteed. Making sure your soil is well-drained and fertilized will also help in clematis wilt prevention. If clematis wilt occurs, cut off all affected stems immediately as close to the base of the plant as possible. Fortunately, clematis usually survive the fungus, and if affected parts are cut back quickly enough, the vine will provide new growth the following growing season.