How to Prune Clematis Fireworks

Pruning clematis is such an important aspect of their care that the vines are classified into groups, from A through C, according to the best times and techniques for pruning them. The Fireworks variety is a large flowering clematis, classified in group B. The Firework’s flower color is officially called blue-mauve, and it has a red line running down the middle of each frilly-edged petal. Fireworks blooms in early summer, takes a break and presents an encore in late summer. Grow Fireworks clematis within U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 to 9. Prune Fireworks in early spring while it is dormant.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Pruning shears
• Plant ties
• Fertilizer

1. Deadhead the Fireworks clematis frequently throughout the growing season. Pinch off dead flowers with your thumb and forefinger or use pruning shears to clip them right behind the flower heads.
2. Untie the portion of the vine before you work on it. Retie it to the support structure when finished.
3. Prune from the top of the vine and work back. Take off any vines that are dead or appear weak. Cut these back to within 1/2 inch of a pair of buds. You may have to follow the vine quite some distance to locate a pair of buds.
4. Avoid cutting off too much older wood, as this is where the vine will bloom.
5. Clean up the soil beneath the Fireworks clematis after pruning. Rake it free of all debris.
6. Fertilize the clematis as you normally do and water afterward until the top 5 inches of soil is moist.
7. Spread 3 inches of organic mulch on the soil around the base of the Fireworks clematis. Keep it 2 inches from the main stem.