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Would it be harmful to an apple tree to plant a Montana clematis to grow over it?

carolwashnotcarolwashnot Posts: 5
edited May 2021 in Plants
Would it be harmful to an apple tree to plant a Montana clematis to grow over it?

Posts

  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,585
    I think it would have to be a pretty big tree to be honest. 
  • Papi JoPapi Jo Posts: 4,254
    I frankly don't see the point.
  • philippasmith2philippasmith2 Posts: 3,742
    Given the tendency for C Montana to be a strong growing plant, I wouldn't advise it.
    Depends on how old/well established your Apple is  and how much clear ground you have around the base as to whether you could choose a less aggressive climber ?
    Planted close together, there will be competition for water and nutrients.
    You have more options if you just wish to use the Apple tree as a support rather than making use of any fruit.
  • DovefromaboveDovefromabove Posts: 88,147
    I’ve seen it done successfully with a very large venerable old apple tree that is past its best days and no longer producing worthwhile fruit 

    I wouldn’t do it to a healthy productive tree. 

    Gardening in Central Norfolk on improved gritty moraine over chalk ... free-draining.





  • micearguersmicearguers Posts: 646
    I had a Clematis rehderiana growing through quite a beast of a Bramley apple tree. It just becomes a tangle and quite unsightly except for a few months. When it's not unsightly it affects the health of the tree by introducing congestion and reducing air circulation - I took it out.
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