clematis
Clematis 'John Huxtable'
Overview
Clematis 'John Huxtable' is a beautiful large-flowered climber that is perfect for flowering a garden wall or fence. This hardy climber grows up to four metres and displays its stunning, bluey-purple blooms with a yellow centre during summer. The vigorous growing vine also produces attractive ivory seed heads, adding a lovely texture and interest to the garden environment. In addition to being great for attracting birds, bees and butterflies, Clematis 'John Huxtable' is very low maintenance, making it ideal for any keen gardener. This stunning plant is definitely well worth adding to any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Clematis 'John Huxtable' is a deciduous climber that needs at least 2 inches of water per week when it is actively growing. During the hottest summer months, it may require additional water. The best way to water a clematis is to give it a deep soak at the roots, allowing the water to penetrate to at least 12 inches deep. This can be done either by using a soaker hose around the base of the plant or by slowly watering with a garden hose for 15-30 minutes. To ensure the water reaches the deep roots, water early in the day so the soil has time to dry before evening.
Light
Clematis 'John Huxtable' prefers full to partial sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. Ideal growth requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. Morning sun is best so that the plant can dry off quickly and avoid moisture-related diseases, such as leaf spots and powdery mildew. Clematis 'John Huxtable' can tolerate some afternoon shade, but too much shade will reduce flowering and the plant may become leggy.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 4–9.
Pruning
Pruning Clematis 'John Huxtable' depends on when it blooms. If it blooms in early spring, then late winter (just before its new growth appears) is the best time for pruning. If it blooms later in the season, it is best to wait until spring is over to prune it. When pruning, only remove dead and dying stems and foliage, and remember to prune lightly so that the vine still maintains its shape and form. Always make the cuts just above a fat, healthy bud. Pruning should be done with sharp, clean pruning shears, or if using a garden saw make sure to sanitize it between uses.
Propagation
Layering Propagation, Cutting, Division, Grafting Propagation
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