Question
Dear Long Island Gardener:  I have a robust clematis paniculata  vine (planted 7 yrs ago) planted up against my chain-link fence in a semi-sheltered but sunny location.  It bloomed profusely this fall and still has green leaves.  How do I prepare it for winter? Should I prune it  back now (we have not had a hard frost yet in Boston) or let it sit as is over the winter? If pruning is called for, how much? Also, should This plant is the sole survivor of the five I originally planted along the fence. I lost all but this one over the winter the year before last: I discovered in the spring that the trunks and roots had just rotted away.  I have never consulted an expert on how to care for these plants: thanks for your advice.  Sally  

Answer
Fall flowering C. paniculata should be pruned early in the Spring.  Some people feel that Clematis is so vigorous it becomes invasive, especially in Zone 7 where I live; they insist on cutting it down to the lower 2 1/2 feet of growth.

Others are glad to have such a reliably self sufficient, low-maintenance vine with exquisite fragrance and lush growth.  City mouse, country mouse.

This is one plant that is recommended as camouflage for chain link fences.

The metallic heat from full sun exposure on the fence would damage leaves and stems of any plant, but these are probably covered in the heat of summer and probably not to blame for your other clematises's demise.

Their stems, however, are brittle and vulnerable, especially near the base of the plant.  They would easily rot if damaged.  A collar placed around the base for protection might be your answer.

Or perhaps the stems of the Clematis you lost were not damaged?

Since this is generally a plant that multiplies itself, watch for self seeding runners along the fence and nearby to replace the plants you lost.  If you lose this one, you will still have those others.

I hope that clears it up.  Let me know if you have any other questions.