Clematis × cartmanii Joe (3 litre pot | 60cm cane)

Ideal container plant. Position: full sun Soil: fertile, well-drained, neutral soil Rate of growth: average Flowering period: April Hardiness: frost hardy (will need winter protection) A profusion of small, waxy, pure white flowers on purple-tinted stems appear in April amid finely cut, deep green leaves. This dwarf, evergreen clematis requires a sunny site and protection against frosts. In all but the warmest areas of the country it's best grown in a conservatory or cool greenhouse in a large patio pot. No routine pruning is necessary. If the spread of the plant needs to be restricted prune immediately after flowering, cutting back overlong shoots to healthy buds. Apply a slow-release balanced fertiliser and a mulch of well-rotted garden compost around the base of the plant in early spring. To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.