Fall Pruning and Mulching Clematis in Zone 5b: What to Do Now

For a clematis in Trenton, Ontario (Zone 5b) that bloomed late summer and spread well:

Pruning

• Light prune now to remove dead growth and tidy shape.
• Avoid heavy pruning; this group blooms on old wood.

Mulching

• Apply 4 inches of cedar bark or leaf mulch.
• Extend at least 1 foot from the crown.
• Especially important on the north/windward side.

This protects the crown from freeze-thaw cycles and conserves moisture. The plant will emerge strong next spring.