Hmm, it looks like you were right after all... The second (and last)
stem also collapsed, and this time I am quite sure I did not damage it
myself. I will try again next year.


Luca
Vancouver, 6b

On Fri, 11 Jul 2003 12:15:37 GMT, Pam wrote:

Nelly Moser is particularly susceptible to clematis wilt, which, btw, does
not have to follow any specific pattern as far as foliage or stem coloration
is concerned. Cutting off the damaged stem, regardless of the cause, will
typically result in new growth from the base, although it may not be apparent
immediately.

FWIW, clematis wilt is rarely fatal and most large flowering hybrids will
outgrow it after their fifth year. Planting the clematis deeply to begin with
will help to develop vigorous growth from the root crown and multiple stems
which aid the plant in being more wilt resistant. Hard pruning the first year
after planting will also help. Browning of the lower foliage in midsummer is
also fairly common with a number of clematis cultivars and generally
indicates a need to step up the watering program.

pam - gardengal



Luca wrote:

Great newsgroup... thanks for all the replies.

I do not think this was caused by clematis wilt because the foliage is
turning brown, and I can see no trace of purple veins. I probably
just damaged that stem somehow...

I think that the locations is pretty good. A Violet Elizabeth, just
next to the Nelly Moser, is rewarding me with an incredible flower.
:-) However I did put in some mulch, just in case.