Enjoy the couple of blooms and pinch back..this will help your clematis focus on growing a stronger rootsystem...Jeanne

Thanks Jeanne. That is what I thought, but I was not sure. Anyone out there have a guideline for the latest to pinch back in zone 4 or 5?

Thanks again! Jodi

Jodi, it won't really matter when you stop pinching back. Once the weather gets cold, the plant will stop growing regardless whether you pinch or not. Once frost hits it, all growth will stop. If you want a general rule, I would say stop the pinching 6 weeks prior to your first average frost. That is the guideline that Chalk Hill uses to suggest the latest a clematis should be planted in any zone.

Thanks for your help!

Jodi