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Clematis taking over quince tree

r.haydenr.hayden Posts: 9
in Plants
Hi there,

We have a mature quince tree with a clematis growing through it. Recently, we have noticed that the clematis is taking over and smothering the quince (see attached pictures). How aggressively can the clematis be pruned back and when is the best time to do this?

Thanks.

Posts

  • bcpathomebcpathome Posts: 1,313
    Yes you can cut it back but the best time depends on what sort it is …….I think .
  • TopbirdTopbird Posts: 8,355
    Do you know what type of clematis it is? Different types are better pruned at different times

    If you don't know - can you describe the flowers (size and colour) and tell us when it flowers.

    However, as a general rule I would say that if it's a well established, vigorous clematis then you're unlikely to kill it by pruning at almost any time. You may just not have any flowers next year.

    If we can't identify the type or group, I would probably prune it in autumn when the quince leaves and fruit have gone and you can see what you're doing. Give it a good feed and mulch next spring and it should be fine.
    Heaven is ... sitting in the garden with a G&T and a cat while watching the sun go down
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