Question
QUESTION: I live in SouthEast Michigan and would like to know what besides mulching should be done to winterize both my peony bushes and my hydrangea.  Also, I have a 4 year old clematis vine that has overgrown it's trellis and I need to know if I should cut it back (and if so, how far?) or just thin it out (instruction, please).  I'd like it to extend higher up the chimney but need to add additional height and support to the trellis which I can't reach because the vine is too thick and full.  THANKS SO MUCH FOR YOUR EXPERTISE!!! :)


ANSWER: Hi Nancy,
Thanx for your question.  First, I would not do much trimming on the hydrangea except to remove dead growth.  Secondly, I would clear away and cutaway the growth on the peonies to about 3 or 4 inches above the soil.  Can you tell me what kind of clematis you have?  There are different methods for different types.
thx,
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: THANKS, Tom.  My clematis is a Jackmani.  I read elsewhere that the new vines grow on the wood from the previous season so I was afraid to cut it back too severely.  Please advise,
Nancy :)

Answer
Hi Nancy,
thanx for the additional information.  Here's what the Missouri Botanical Gardens of St. Louis recommend.  I hope this helps.
Tom

Easily grown in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade. Clematis generally prefer full sun, but this clematis has better tolerance for part shade than most. Roots should be kept cool (shade with annuals or perennials and/or use a 2" mulch) and uniformly moist. Intolerant of heavy clay soils. Best to avoid any heavy pruning until plant is well established. Bloom on this clematis is from new (current season's) growth. Prune back to strong leaf buds 1-2' from the ground in late winter or early spring.