On 2009-05-07 11:15:51 +0100, Chris J Dixon said:

K wrote:

Alternative is to grow clematis in large pots away from slugs (I grow in
greenhouse) until they have about 4ft of woody stem and then plant them
out. And don't cut them back lower than this. Although they still get
slug/snail damage, it's a lot less at that height, and they soon get to
a level of vigour where they are growing faster than the slugs can eat.

I note that it is generally advised to prune clematis fairly hard
after flowering, yet some of the most impressive displays I have
seen have been those where it has just been left to itself on a
wall or trellis.

Any thoughts?

Chris

It depends on the type of Clematis and they're split into groups with
regard to pruning requirements. That's why it helps to grow two of the
same type together, or indeed with a rose needing the same treatment.
Our C. redehriana is usually hacked back to the ground every year and
is up by the bedroom windows next summer.
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Sacha
www.hillhousenursery.com
Exotic plants, shrubs & perennials
South Devon