Our Clematis Blooms Only At The Bottom Half. Should We Trim Off The Top That Isn’t Blooming?

Question

We have had this clematis for over 10 years as a gift so we aren’t aware of what kind it is. It is planted in a corner garden within a 6′ fence. Last year, it bloomed on the back side facing the fence. This year is is blooming on the bottom half of the vine. We are wondering if we should trim off the top?

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Answer 1

Pruning is desirable for the deciduous clematis (some are evergreen), depending on the type. Since you aren't sure of the variety, it is best to prune after flowering to remove old growth. If you are sure the top doesn't have any buds, go ahead and trim it off now. Here is more:

https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=12472