How to Fertilize Clematis Jackmanii

The Clematis cultivar Jackmanii is a soft lavender flowering vine commonly called Jackman clematis. Because of its rapid rate of growth and profuse bloom cycles, Jackman clematis is a heavy feeding plant. It should be on a continuous regimen of fertilizer regimen—every four to six weeks—from spring through the end of the growing season. Avoiding excesses of nitrogen fertilizer will keep the vines producing the maximum volume of blooms.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

things you’ll need:

• Low nitrogen 5-10-10 soluble fertilizer
• Balanced 10-10-10 soluble fertilizer
• Water

1. Fertilize your clematis vine starting in spring, when the buds reach 2 inches in length, with a low-nitrogen fertilizer—one with a guaranteed analysis of 5-10-10. Apply the fertilizer according to the product label’s dosing directions for your size of plant and soil type.
2. Make the second application of fertilizer four to six weeks after the first, this time using a balanced complete fertilizer with a guaranteed analysis of 10-10-10. Again follow the product label’s dosing directions for your size of plant and the makeup of your soil.
3. Repeat the alternating applications of the two fertilizer types every four to six weeks until the first hard frost stops the growing season.
4. Resume the dual fertilizer regimen in the spring when buds again reach 2 inches in length.

Tips & Warnings

• Water the fertilizer and surrounding soil immediately after application. Add enough water to wet the soil thoroughly at least 8 to 12 inches down to distribute the fertilizer nutrients into the soil.