Alpine clematis: when and how to prune

Alpine clematis: when to prune it?

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No pruning is needed: it belongs to pruning group 1. To keep it in shape, prune lightly just after flowering, in May–June.

What else to prune in those months? May · June

Alpine clematis: how to prune it?

1. After flowering, cut over-long or tangled stems back to just above a pair of healthy buds.
2. Remove dead and damaged stems.
3. Do not prune in winter or early spring: it flowers on last year’s wood, so you would cut off the flower buds.
4. An overgrown plant can be cut back hard after flowering; the following year’s display will then be somewhat smaller.

How much to cut, and how often?

• One pruning period a year: May–June.

What does it mean for wildlife?

• Pruning in May–June can fall in the nesting season (15 March–15 August). Check carefully for nesting birds first: disturbing an active nest is against the law.
• Alpine clematis flowers in April–May, when it attracts bees.
• If pruning falls during flowering, wait until it is over or leave part of the plant to flower, so bees and butterflies still benefit.
• Prunings can go on a dead hedge or brash pile in a corner of the garden: shelter for hedgehogs, wrens and insects.

Common mistakes

• Clipping without first checking for nesting birds.

Nearby: related pruning guides

• Mountain clematis
• Armand clematis
• Golden clematis
• Italian clematis
• Large-flowered clematis
• Old man’s beard

Plant profile: Alpine clematis · Pruning calendar and basic rules