Clematis wilt
DISEASE
When it's active · UK
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Northern Italy
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Central Italy
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Southern Italy and islands
JFMAMJJASOND
How to recognise it
Sudden collapse and blackening of one or more stems, often just as the plant comes into flower, while the rest of the plant may remain healthy.
Life cycle and conditions
A fungal disease entering through wounds or splits at the base of the stem, often following physical damage or stress.
Prevention
Plant with the stem base 5-8cm below soil level so dormant buds survive below ground if top growth is lost.
How to treat it
🌿 ORGANIC · RECOMMENDED
Cut back affected stems to healthy growth or ground level — deep planting from the start usually allows full regrowth from below the damage the following season.
🧪 CHEMICAL · IF YOU CHOOSE
No chemical treatment applies here — deep planting and prompt cutting back of affected stems is the complete and effective response.
PLANTS MOST AFFECTED
Clematis (mainly large-flowered types)
IN THE CARE SHEETS
Clematis