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Clematis and Collapsing Fence

Emski72Emski72 Posts: 3
in Problem solving

So my fence is collapsing under the weight of an old clematis. It has an old and gnarly trunk which is pushing the fence over, the weight of the branches is not helping. So my neighbour ( the clematis is growing on her side) and I have consulted some fencing blokes and gardeners and the consensus is cut it down. However, we would really prefer not to do that as its old and pretty and provides us privacy between gardens. I think its Monatana as it flowers in april/May sometimes again and appear to have growth on old wood. Oh and its PInk. Has anyone any genius ideas for supporting it while we replace the fence?

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Posts

  • PosyPosy Posts: 3,601

    It's huge isn't it! I can't tell you how to support it but I can say that we had to cut one down when our fence collapsed and I was sure it would die - but not a bit. It grew back in no time at all. Make sure that your new fence is really robust. Good luck!

  • Emski72Emski72 Posts: 3

    It is indeed and looks fab when in flower. Thanks for your reassurance...we may have to bite the bullet and cut it down before the fence collapses under it..

  • chris 172chris 172 Posts: 403

    Hi

    I also have had the same at home with a Montana Rubens that has been grown on my fence for at least ten years.

    the problem you have with this type is that it is so vigorous it climbs over your fence in time and you end up with the woody growth and your neighbours gets your display of either pink or white.

    cut it down, take some cuttings and once you have a new fence start over again.

    two years will get it established and you will have all the colour on your side

    happy gardening

     

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117

    I'd agree with chris. Cut it back, get your fence sorted and then stand back and wait. It'll soon start going again, and you'll have done it a favour. A feed, water (if necessary) and a mulch will benefit.

    I had one on  a fence but I trained it back and forth so that I had the flowers - not the neighbours. 

    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • Emski72Emski72 Posts: 3

    Hi all thanks for the advice. I think we will take everyone's advice and cut it back. Funnily enough I have all the flowers on my sideimage and as I have to fork out for the fence we will wait until after it flowers (April?) to take it back.

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