I have this type of clematis and do you find it over powers everything, I will have to keep an eye on it this year and cut it back, what I do to keep the roots cool is plant annuals around it or try growing Morning Glory or Sweet Pea and let them mingle. Another suggestion I hear about was putting a flat stone on top of the roots or put mulch around the roots. I find that some of my clematis leaves turn brown half way up the vine and it looks terrible and I don't know how to stop this from happening, maybe just too much sun, if you have any ideas I would love to hear.

I place large stones around the base of my clematis and lay a sea clam shell or brick across them to shade the base it until I can plant a companion. It works.

Thanks so much! Great ideas!

Anna