How to Grow and Care for Clematis Mystic Gem

‘Clematis Mystic Gem’ offers a captivating display for any garden space. It is a popular choice for vertical interest and elegance. Its striking flowers and adaptability make it a desirable addition.

Meet Clematis Mystic Gem

‘Clematis Mystic Gem’, also known by its full name ‘Clematis Vancouver Mystic Gem’, presents large, showy flowers, measuring 6 to 8 inches across. The blooms are soft pink with distinct white edges and red stamens. They are outward-facing and disc-shaped.

This deciduous climbing vine reaches 5 to 10 feet. It blooms from late spring through early summer (May and June). It often reblooms in the fall (September). It is classified as a Pruning Group 2 clematis.

Planting Clematis Mystic Gem

‘Clematis Mystic Gem’ flourishes in full sun to partial shade. While the vine needs sun for flowering, its roots prefer cool, shaded conditions, often called “head in the sun, feet in the shade.” Planting a low-growing perennial or placing a stone slab at the base can help keep the root zone cool.

The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic matter, and consistently moist. ‘Clematis Mystic Gem’ prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH. Dig the planting hole generously (about 18 inches wide and deep), and amend the soil with compost and bone meal. Plant the clematis deeper than its nursery container, burying the crown 2 to 6 inches below the soil surface to encourage stem development. Provide a sturdy support structure like a trellis, arbor, or fence at planting, as this climbing vine needs something to twine upon. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Ongoing Care for Clematis Mystic Gem

Consistent watering is necessary, especially during its initial growing season to establish a strong root system. Deep and regular watering is beneficial during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Once established, the plant still benefits from weekly watering, with increased frequency for container-grown specimens.

Applying organic mulch around the base is beneficial. This conserves soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and keeps roots cool, aligning with the “feet in the shade” principle. Mulch also gradually enriches the soil as it breaks down. Beginning in spring, feed regularly with a balanced fertilizer to support vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Ensure the climbing vine has adequate support, regularly guiding new growth onto its chosen structure as it develops.

Pruning Clematis Mystic Gem

‘Clematis Mystic Gem’ belongs to Pruning Group 2, which means it produces flowers on both old and new wood. This allows for two main flowering periods: an initial flush in late spring to early summer on old wood, and a second, lighter bloom in late summer or early fall on new growth. Understanding this pattern is important for effective pruning.

Primary pruning occurs in late winter or early spring (February or March), before new growth begins. During this time, remove any dead, damaged, or weak stems. Lightly prune the remaining healthy stems, cutting them back to a strong set of buds. The goal is to maintain shape, encourage strong growth, and preserve the framework for the first wave of blooms. After the first major flush of flowers fades in early summer, perform a lighter prune. This involves removing spent flowers and cutting back stems by about one-third to encourage a second round of blooms later in the season. This second pruning helps to maintain vigor and promotes a more continuous display.

Addressing Common Challenges

Clematis wilt is a fungal disease that can affect ‘Clematis Mystic Gem’, particularly large-flowered hybrids. Symptoms include sudden wilting and blackening of stems and leaves, often spreading rapidly. While top growth may collapse, roots typically remain unaffected, allowing the plant to often recover and send up new shoots. To manage wilt, immediately cut back all affected stems to healthy wood, even if this means cutting to ground level. Dispose of infected plant material outside the compost pile to prevent spread, and disinfect pruning tools after use.

Powdery mildew can also affect clematis, appearing as a white, dusty coating on leaves and stems. This fungal issue thrives in warm, humid conditions and can be mitigated by ensuring good air circulation through proper spacing and pruning. Remove any affected foliage promptly.

Common garden pests like aphids, slugs, and occasionally rabbits or mice may also pose challenges. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects often found on new growth, while slugs create irregular holes in leaves. Protecting young shoots with physical barriers can deter larger pests like rabbits.

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