I would cut it off now. I'm also in zone 5, in Vermont, and have just finished pruning all my clems.

Yes, prune it now. I prune mine when the leaves are still in the bud stage. Also you can prune anytime to shape the vine knowing you will lose some blossoms. Or you can try to wind the vines in a direction you wish. Or you can leave the plant to itself. Whatever is pleasing to you.

In my area Little Duckling blooms throughout July. It is listed as blooming in May-June. Do you cut it back after spring bloom for a fall bloom?

Your blooming photo is gorgeous.

I would definitely prune off all that dry dead growth. Now.

BTW I prune mine to the ground.

Thanks guys.

Buyorsell, you mentioned that in a previous posting. Does yours bloom the double blooms?

Yes, it does. However, when the bulk of the buds open, they are single.

Piilu blooms so many, I don't think mostly single is a downfall

Mixture of double and single blooms

I bought an obelisk slightly taller than what the piilu was suppose to be but the piilu is growing past it. I wonder if I prune it hard like yours if that would control the height a bit? Would that help keep it in check? You are absolutely right about the amounts of blooms she produces. Gorgeous!