Can you grow clematis in a container ?

[Gilli]

I've got a couple of bare fence panels above my patio and would like to cover these with trellis and a climber.

I wondered if it's possible to successfully grow clematis in a (large) pot - or would it be impossible to keep it properly fed ? Would its root system be happy in a container ?

I've already got honeysuckle, jasmine & passionflower elsewhere in the garden, and know how clematis ought to be planted etc. I'm just a bit wary of buying an expensive plant if this is a futile idea.

[Jules001]

I've got a clematis in a large terracotta pot growing over an obelisk that my hubby made for me. It was only put in either last year or the year before that, we had a few flowers last year, but have had more this year,. I do feed it and as long as you are aware that clematis do not like their roots to be in full sun and position it accordingly you should be ok.

[Robinia]

Yes Gilli, my neighbour has grown clematis in large pots very successfully for several years now. As Jules says keep the roots shaded & you may need to feed a bit more than if it was in the ground.

[Gilli]

Great .... that's my next garden centre purchase decided then !

[Clanad]

Just one caveat, if I may.  Clematis won't like standing in wet conditions, so be sure the pot has good drainage.  If it doesn't, drill some fairly large (1/2 inch diameter) holes in the bottom, cover these with a piece of screen, such as used on a screen door, add a layer of some small rocks before adding the potting soil.  Additionally, clematis come in three varietals and each has its own pruning requirements to assure a good growth next season.  Try to be knowledgeable of which you have and its needs as far as pruning. Keep the blooms deadheaded to assist in new growth this season... Good luck!

[woofgang]

gilli if money is tight, try buying the rooted cuttings mail order. The late flowerers will leap away and probably flower this year and the early flowerers (Montana) will leap away too and be ready for next year