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Can clematis cascade down a retaining wall?

Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 8:11 pm
by ChristyM
I have a retaining wall that I'd like to hide. I was hoping to plant clematis(Jack Manni) at the top and have it cascade down over the wall. Has anyone ever done this? I've only seen them climbing up.

Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 8:19 pm
by hendi_alex
Never done it, but seems worth a try. Main problem is that the clematis vine is ugly and bare about six months out of the year, and won't hide your wall. Perhaps you should consider planting some evergreen vine to cascade down the wall, and interplant the clematis along with the evergreen. I've mixed clematis in with honeysuckle and trumpet vine, and it does great, with different vines blooming at different times during the season.

Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 8:32 pm
by ChristyM
That sounds like a great idea. I'm wondering if honeysuckle would choke out the clematis. I have it growing wild everywhere and it is taking over. I am always having to unwind it from my plants and bushes. I can't seem to get it all pulled out. I love the fragrant flowers though. do you have trouble containing it?

Posted: Wed Apr 01, 2009 9:28 pm
by hendi_alex
What I consider common honeysuckle with the creme colored flowers is far too invasive to plant anywhere IMO. I am planting red honeysuckle in several spots around the yard. Its vines tend to be fairly compact without the aggressive spreading habit of the more common variety. Something like confederate jasmine or evergreen clematis might be more appropriate for your use. There are probably many good candidates, and perhaps worth some research or brain picking before making a choice or choices..

Posted: Thu Apr 02, 2009 8:34 pm
by ChristyM
Thanks Alex
I didn't know there was such a thing as evergreen Clematis. Unfortunately I've already ordered and received the Jack Manni. I will look into getting some of the Honey suckle or Jasmine that you suggested. I know that Clematis like there roots to remain cool so they might do better climbing but I think I will try the cascade and see what happens. I had wild rambling roses there a few years ago and it was beautiful but they only bloomed once and they are invasive as well. I am still finding and pulling them out. Thanks for the advise. :D