Or grow them over mature shrubs, depending on the clematis. They also tried in the Beechgrove to grow them along the ground in a border. Can't remember how that turned out...........
'Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement' - Helen Keller
I have thought of growing one (perhaps the Montana Grandiflora around this archway - but on the other side to this picture - it will be facing East and planted in soil - although cold in winter, our prevailing wind is S/W, so it will be relatively sheltered. I also like the idea of growing them in flowerbeds/borders using an obelisk to train them up.
Great idea. I love growing climbers through trees. The clemetis will grow faster than than the silver birch, however, so you might think about growing one of the less vigorous ones like alpina. The contrast of the pale flowers and the silver bark would be perfect.
The alpina would be in flower when the fresh new leaves are on the birch so not an enhancement and would end up seriously short of nutrients in years to come. Better to find another tree or support as per the majority of replies above.
Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
"The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
Yes, I see that now Obelixx - I was thinking of planting a Cirrhosa Jingle Bells up a cherry tree, which is in blossom now, whereas Jingle bells flowers in December/February. I would appreciate your advice.
I think clematis that flower in winter or very early spring need to be near the house so you can see and enjoy them as you are coming and going. They also need to be sheltered form bad weather so they can bloom fully. Not sure a cherry tree in an open space would answer those criteria.
Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
"The price good men (and women) pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men (and women)."
Yes, it is true that it should be near the house to appreciate the flowers when we don't walk in the garden so often (in winter). I will bear that in mind - however Jingle Bells is a scented variety and I have allergies to perfumed plants which really restricts my gardening so for that reason I was thinking of planting it away from windows and doors. I will have to rethink my planting strategy. Thanks Obelixx.
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