Clematis Nelly Moser Problems

Clematis ‘Nelly Moser’ is a popular cultivar known for its large, pale pink flowers with striking central stripes. However, like all plants, it can encounter problems. Here are some of the main challenges gardeners face with this plant and possible solutions.

Problem: Clematis Wilt

Symptoms:

• Leaves and stems turning black.
• Foliage wilting or appearing as if it has a fungal infection.

Solutions:

1. Inspect for damages further down the stem which might be caused by pests like snails.
2. Cut affected leaves and stems just above a leaf joint a few inches below the damaged area.
3. If the condition persists, consider cutting the whole stem down to just below ground level.
4. Remember, there is no chemical treatment for clematis wilt, so regular inspection and prompt action are essential.

Problem: Overfeeding

Symptoms:

• Blackened foliage.
• Plant appears as if it has overdosed on nitrogen.

Possible Causes:

• Overfeeding with fertilizers like tomato feed.
• Enriching the planting hole with too much cow manure.

Solutions:

1. Refrain from feeding the plant excessively.
2. Water the plant with rainwater regularly.
3. If recently planted with excessive manure, consider replanting.

Problem: Planting and Sunlight

Suggestions:

1. Ensure the base of the clematis plant is shaded or protected to keep the roots cool.
2. Clematis, especially the deciduous species from cool regions, prefer their roots to be cool. Plant them with other shrubs that can provide shade.
3. Use organic mulch to keep the soil moist and shield it from direct sunlight.
4. It’s a misconception that clematis roots need to be cool. They thrive in moist conditions.

Problem: Watering

Insights:

1. A mature clematis requires a significant amount of water, roughly 4 gallons a week and even up to 1 gallon a day during hot conditions.
2. It’s better to provide clematis with ample water rather than additional feed, especially when grown in-ground. However, those grown in terracotta pots can benefit from a balanced soluble fertilizer like a 3.1.6 mix.
3. Watering is essential for the plant’s overall health. Ensure that the plant has access to consistent moisture, especially during its initial years.

Additional Tips:

1. Companion Planting: Consider adding plants that can provide both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. For instance, trailing plants like lobelia or white bacopa in pots with clematis not only look attractive but can also help in retaining soil moisture.
2. Knowledge Sharing: Gardening is a journey, and there’s always something new to learn. Engaging with a community or experts can provide invaluable insights, like the importance of watering over feeding in the case of clematis.

By understanding the unique requirements of the Clematis ‘Nelly Moser’, gardeners can ensure their plant thrives, producing its signature breathtaking blooms year after year.