When planting clematis, I saw where someone cut the young plant back to just a couple inches in order to stimulate a thicker growth habit. Is this recommended for our area? Does it apply to all types of clematis?
When planting dormant clematis (either new or transplanted) it is beneficial to hard prune back to 6 to 12 inches to promote a fuller vine. If the plant is already growing, keep the plant intact for the first season so the leaves can nourish the root system and aid in establishment. You may then hard prune the following spring to promote the thicker growth.