Planting Winter-Flowering Clematis and Heather in Winter

A gardener asks if winter-flowering clematis and heather can be planted in winter when other plants have died back.

Depends on Your Climate

Frost-free/mild areas (FL, S. TX, S. CA): Plant late fall through winter.
Zones with hard frost: Do NOT plant if hard frosts expected. Roots must not freeze.
Clematis: Mediterranean natives; tender. Plant in spring in cold zones.
Heather (Calluna/Erica): Hardier, but still best planted spring or early fall.

Plan in winter. Mark spots. Plant in early spring when soil is workable. Use photos of dormant garden for layout.

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