We grow several species and cultivars of clematis. In our climate, however, we have many (viticellas, etc.) that die back to below ground level. Some of the viticellas don't actually bloom until mid July. We have lots of color throughout most of the growing season but would like to extend the season of some of the viticellas. Perhaps have a Polish Spirit start a month early and then have one beside it take over for the late season.

Curious. Has anyone in a colder climate ever taken down the vine and buried it shallow in the ground and mulched? I'm wondering if this might preserve some live wood and result in blooms sooner next year. We do this succesfully with our grape vines each year but have never tried with clematis.