The honest fertilizer for clematis is one that furnish the necessary nutrients without promoting extravagant foliation increase . Clematis is a great eater , meaning it need a full amount of nutrients to thrive and produce beautiful flower . However , using a eminent atomic number 7 fertilizer can lead to undue folio increase at the expense of flower production .
For clematis , it is urge to use a down nitrogen fertilizer such as a 5 - 10 - 10 preparation in the spring , when the buds are about 2 inch long . This fertilizer proportion means that it contains 5 % nitrogen , 10 % phosphorus , and 10 % atomic number 19 . The low nitrogen contentedness help prevent excessive foliage maturation while still providing the necessary nutrients for healthy flora development .
To insure a well - balance nutrient supply , it is advisable to alternate feeding every 4 to 6 weeks with a balanced 10 - 10 - 10 fertiliser . This plant food contains adequate ratio of atomic number 7 , morning star , and potassium , render a more balanced nutritious profile . This alternate feeding docket helps keep up a good nutrient balance throughout the growing season .
When apply fertiliser , it is all important to follow the instructions on the packaging . Over - fertilization can conduce to nutritious burn and damage the plant . It is better to err on the side of caveat and apply slightly less plant food than recommend , peculiarly if you are incertain about the specific need of your clematis variety .
In addition to unconstipated impregnation , it is also important to allow for adequate water and ensure right soil consideration for your clematis . Clematis opt well - draining soil and benefits from veritable lachrymation , especially during dry periods . mulch around the foot of the plant can facilitate retain moisture and regulate grease temperature .
Personal experience : I have been growing clematis in my garden for several years , and I have found that a balanced fertilization approach work comfortably for maintaining sizeable and vibrant plant . I typically start the time of year by applying a low nitrogen plant food when the bud are starting to go forth . This helps provide the initial boost of nutrients without promoting excessive leaf ontogenesis . Throughout the growing time of year , I flip-flop between the low nitrogen fertilizer and a balanced 10 - 10 - 10 fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks . This schedule has avail my clematis plants fly high and produce an teemingness of beautiful flowers .
To summarize , the good fertilizer for clematis is a low nitrogen fertilizer , such as a 5 - 10 - 10 formulation , applied in the spring when the buds are about 2 in long . This should be followed by alternate eating every 4 to 6 workweek with a balanced 10 - 10 - 10 fertiliser until the end of the growing time of year . Remember to follow the instructions on the fertilizer promotion and provide adequate water and proper soil conditions for optimal clematis growth .
Caroline Bates
