Sad looking clematis

14 years ago

I live in northern Iowa, and my 3 "adult" clematis have been so pretty over the last few years. This year, they don't look as good. Very few new runners, and very thin on flowers. It was a mild winter for us, but yet they look the worst that they ever had. What can I do, to help them along? I know it is early, but I can tell that they are just not going to fill out like they usually do. What is there, looks healthy though. Maybe just an off year?

My two new babies are coming along great though. Just tiny yet.

Thanks!

MonaRae

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Comments (3)

mnwsgal
14 years ago
Try adding compost/manure tea or alfalfa pellets to help bulk them up. Sorry that yours aren't looking good. Mine are full of buds with 'Miss Bateman' opening up this week. I added alfalfa pellets last summer (though don't know if there is a cause/effect or if it is just coincidence and maturity).

{{gwi:589304}}
NHBabs z4b-5a NH
14 years ago
If you might have voles, check for vole tunnels around the base of the plant by gently pushing on the soil with your hands to fill them in. Then water well. Often when I have a plant that is weak in spring, it's due to roots being eaten by voles and the tunnels allowing air to dry out remaining roots.
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buyorsell888
14 years ago
Pruning stimulates new growth. Alfalfa pellets do help too.