More of Lyndy's Tips

• Fertilize. Begin fertilizing in spring when new growth emerges and repeat once a month, stopping in fall. "I use organic fertilizer―anything labeled for roses or tomatoes is fine," Lyndy says. When planting them alone or in containers, Lyndy suggests staking them and tying the stems with twine for support.
• Hide the mess. Lyndy suggests that to prevent late-summer messiness from blooms, you should plant them near a shrub or tree; as leaves brown and fall off, they’re less noticeable. "I love the look of clematis rambling over shrubs, up trees, and even as a ground cover," she adds.