Feeding Clematis in Pots
When and How to Feed Clematis in a Pot for Stunning Blooms
So, you’ve treated yourself to a beautiful clematis and lovingly planted it in a nice big pot on your patio. You're dreaming of a summer full of blooms—but now you're wondering how to keep it happy, healthy, and covered in flowers. Don’t worry, you’re not alone—we’ve all been there!
I’ve got more pots on my patio than I can count, but my absolute favourite is my Clematis Samaritan Jo. She lives in a large container with a 5ft obelisk for support and puts on a real show every year. As a Group 3 clematis, she gets pruned hard each winter—cut right back to around 6 inches. Every spring, she rewards me with lush new growth and a cascade of stunning blooms... well, almost every year.
Last year, I noticed a disappointing dip in the number of flowers. Gutted doesn’t even begin to cover it. And it hit me—if I’m dealing with this, maybe you are too. So here’s a friendly guide to feeding clematis in pots to help yours thrive, whether it’s your first season or your fifth.
🌱 Why Feeding Clematis in Pots Matters
Clematis grown in containers need a little extra TLC. Unlike those planted in the ground, pot-grown clematis can’t send their roots out in search of nutrients. So if you want a clematis that's bursting with flowers, feeding is key.
🌼 When to Feed Clematis in Pots
1. During the Growing Season (Spring to Late Summer):
As soon as you see signs of new growth—typically mid to late spring—start feeding every 2 to 3 weeks. Use a liquid tomato feed like Tomorite, which is rich in potassium and great for encouraging flower production. While there are specialist clematis feeds out there, Tomorite is a simple, budget-friendly option that works wonders.
2. In Late Autumn or Early Winter (For Older Plants):
If your clematis has been in the same pot for a few years, it’s time for a refresh. When the plant goes dormant in late autumn or early winter, carefully remove it from the pot. Knock off some of the tired old compost and mix up a fresh batch with a good quality slow-release fertiliser. Repot your clematis using this enriched compost to give it a nutrient boost for the next season.
🌿 Top Tips for Feeding Clematis in Containers
Mulch it up: In early spring and again in late autumn, top-dress the soil with a layer of mulch or compost. This helps retain moisture and gradually feeds the roots.
Don’t overdo it: Too much feed can cause more leaves than flowers. Keep it balanced and stick to the feeding schedule. Never feed more than every other week.
Water wisely: Feed when the soil is already moist—never on dry roots.
🤔 Still Not Getting That WOW Factor?
Sometimes, it’s not about feeding—it’s about fit. Some clematis varieties simply don’t do well in pots. While many modern cultivars are bred for container living (we always flag this on our website), older or more vigorous varieties can struggle with the limited root space.
If your clematis just isn’t thriving, try planting it in the ground or letting it sprawl across a trellis or cover a fence (a great way to cover a slightly dodgy or ugly looking fence). You might be amazed at how quickly it bounces back!
📸 Need a Hand?
If you're still unsure what’s going wrong—or just want a bit of expert advice—feel free to send us a photo. The team here at The Cotswold Plant Company is always happy to help you get the very best from your garden.
Happy planting, and here’s to pots full of petals this season! 🌸