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I'm reaching out for some advice regarding two Clematis armandii 'Appleblossom' plants I planted by my fence last October.

They are roughly 60cm high, and they seemed to be doing fine through the winter. However, just now I have noticed that both plants have significant damage at the base of the stalks, which looks as if the stems have been crushed or stomped on.

The damage appears to be at ground level, and it's quite severe, showing broken filaments. Surprisingly, the plants still have beautiful green leaves.

enter image description here

I am quite sure there hasn't been anyone stomping on them as they are behind my fence, also I made sure to leave the little bamboo cane they came with to provide extra support until they would start climbing on the face. I also kept some distance between the stalks and any mulch to prevent rot. The winter hasn't been harsh, and these plants are quite hardy.

I am reaching out with a few questions:

1.  Would it have been better to plant these in spring rather than in autumn?
2.  Does anyone have an idea of what might have caused the damage?
3.  Lastly, is there any chance these plants can be saved? e.g. layering the damaged stalks, or cutting them back at ground level?
Martin
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1 Answers1

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This is a member of the clematis family that falls into the vigorous category. Once they get started they can get eaten or crushed to the ground in the fall and sprout up in the spring.

In my area (USDA zone 4) an October planting would be a little late with not enough time to grow roots before freeze up. If you are in a warmer area or this is a protected micro climate the plants should be fine.

My recommendations:

  • do nothing, new plantings can be slow to sprout up
  • if the stem in the picture is damaged too much by winter new sprouts will emerge from the base
  • if it is a dry spring then water the plants thoroughly
kevinskio
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