Park Seed Garden Journal

I have a big soft spot for flowering vines of all sorts, so I'm always on the lookout for great ones.  The Genus that most consistently pleases me is Clematis.  Most Clematis are remarkably easy to grow.  Even my Dad, whose gardening abilities are pretty much limited to rebuilding the carburetor on the lawnmower, recently proved that he can not only keep a Clematis alive, but get it to thrive.  He was ecstatic with his climber's performance, and it's no surprise; the best thing about these vines is the stunning, prolific flowers.  Most Clematis bloom passionately at least once a year, and many are rebloomers, with more than one distinct blooming cycle each year.  The blooms of a Clematis never fail to please, either.  They're so varied and interesting that there's sure to be a Clematis that's perfect for nearly every gardener.  I tend to gravitate toward the plants with simpler, more elegant blooms, such as Clematis 'Ruutel' or Clematis Durandii (which is the plant I left in the care of my father), but there are also many Clematis varieties available with showier blooms, such as Clematis Patricia Ann Fretwell™.  Some of my very favorites, though, are the varieties featuring more unique blooms.

Whatever you're looking for in your Clematis, there is probably one that is just right for you.  I encourage every gardener to take a look at many different Clematis varieties, as just searching for the right one for you is a great, rewarding experience.