Clematis that don't flower!

[peskie]

Has anyone got any ideas why 2 clematis, planted in compost in a very large tub are not producing any flowers?  This is their 3rd year so they are well established but they have never flowered. Could it be that the compost hasn't got the right ingredients? They are regularly fed and produce very healthy growth, with lots of leaves - just no flowers.

Many thanks.

[jake-the-peg]

I could be wrong with this but I think Clematis are one of those that do better with restricted roots.

I had one that I planted in a small gap between two sections of concrete and it flowered to beat the band every year and a bit in the autumn if it thought you hadn't got the point.

 

For what it's worth it was a Montana 

[Robinia]

peskie I would try feeding with something that promotes flowers, for example rose or tomato food.  As a general rule roots should be cool & shaded and heads in the sun but some clematis will flower in the shade.

[fibifooz]

I think you may be giving them the wrong food.  I feed mine with Priorswood Clematis feed, you can buy it in most garden centres.Robina is right about the roots in the shade and the heads in the sun.  As they are in a pot, try putting slate or pebbles on the top to absorb the heat from the sun.  You also need to make sure the water gets right down to the roots when you water them.

[Clanad]

There are three distinct varietals of clematis and each one has a different requirement for pruning... If you have one that blooms only from new growth, it's one that requires hard pruning in the fall.  That is, it should be pruned back to near ground level.  I would try pruning some of the new growth back several inches.  This is appropriate for another varietal that requires only some pruning.  See if this encourages blooming.  If not, prune it severely this fall.  Good luck!