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If I prune back a very old clematis montana will it survive? It has about 5 very thick and non productive ropes which have been exposed after pruning another shrub - do I dare to cut them right back and start again? it's at least 15 years, possibly 30+ years.




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I would be inclined to take out 2 of these 'ropes' down to 2 feet. When you see good new shoots growing then take out the others the following spring.

27 Apr, 2010

 

I agree with Volunteer though, my experience say you could hack the whole shrub back and it would still grow up like a weed. Our montanas' have obviously not read that t hey only need pruning back once a year at a specific time. They grow like weeds and get majorly hacked back as needed... and still flower like mad!

27 Apr, 2010

 

Thanks - this is very helpful. You've confirmed my inclination, but I'll do it with more confidence now!

28 Apr, 2010

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