Yes, I always cut them back when I plant them. I cut them back again the following spring.

If it has buds or flowers I cut it back after it is done blooming. I usually leave them in the pot until they are done blooming.

Yes, it makes them grow better because it allows them to put on more root growth.

I cut them back before planting, unless they are blooming or about to bloom. Yes...... it's hard to cut them back, but worth it:)

I cut them, then plant them. Easier to deal with planting all chopped off too.

I just bought a Montana Freda, a group 1. If I hard prune it the first 2 (or 3?) seasons doesn't that mean it may take quite some time before I get to see some blooms as it blooms on old wood...?

I only hard Prune my "Montana's" the 1st year after planting and from then on ..I let them do their thing..you are right..they bloom in early Spring on the vines grown from previous seasons...Jeanne

I would prune the montana now, after its bloom cycle, rather than waiting until late winter as is more commonly the case for other types. This will still encourage the plant to focus on developing a good root system yet allow sufficient time for growth of new stems which should provide for flowering next season.

While I do believe an initial hard pruning is beneficial for all newly planted clematis, I also think it is important to be observant of the appropriate timing - and type I's are recommended to be pruned, should they need it, immediately after their bloom period. Like Jeanne, I'm not sure I'd bother with any future pruning, unless you wish to. IME, montanas are rampant growers, are never plagued by wilt and establish rapidly.

Agreed. Didn't realize you were talking about a Montana.

I do prune my Alpinas and Macropetalas hard when I plant them and every year for at least three so far because I tried it previously without pruning and the results weren't good.