Can Clematis Grow On The Ground

Clematis can absolutely grow on the ground, and it’s a technique many gardeners use to create stunning ground cover displays.

Instead of letting these beautiful climbers scramble up a trellis or fence, you can let clematis grow on the ground to fill in bare spots, cascade over slopes, or weave through other plants.

This approach works especially well with non-clinging varieties that don’t have tendrils, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy their spectacular blooms in a whole new way.

In this post, we’ll explore why you might want to let clematis grow on the ground, the best methods to encourage this growth habit, and the top varieties that thrive as sprawling ground covers.

Let’s dig into the details of growing clematis on the ground successfully.
 

Why Let Clematis Grow On The Ground

There are several excellent reasons to let clematis grow on the ground rather than training it upwards.

Many gardeners are surprised to learn how versatile these plants can be when their natural climbing instincts are redirected horizontally.

Here’s why you should consider this approach for your garden.
 

1. It’s Perfect for Slopes and Erosion Control

If you have a tricky slope that’s difficult to mow or that suffers from soil erosion, you can let clematis grow on the ground to help stabilize it.

The dense mat of stems and foliage acts like a natural net, holding the soil in place during heavy rains.

This is a much more attractive solution than ugly landscape fabric or large rocks.

Plus, the deep root system of clematis helps anchor the soil effectively.
 

2. It Creates a Beautiful Living Mulch

When you let clematis grow on the ground, it creates a living mulch that shades the soil beneath it.

This helps keep the ground cool and moist, which clematis roots actually love.

It also suppresses weeds by blocking out sunlight and preventing weed seeds from germinating.

This natural ground cover can reduce your weeding chores significantly while adding color.
 

3. It’s Ideal for Interplanting with Shrubs and Perennials

One of the most beautiful ways to let clematis grow on the ground is to weave it through low-growing shrubs or large perennials.

The clematis will scramble over and through the other plants, adding a layer of vertical interest without needing any support.

This creates a natural, cottage-garden feel that’s full of charm and color.

It’s a great way to maximize space in a small garden bed.
 

How To Encourage Clematis To Grow On The Ground

Getting clematis to grow on the ground is simple, but it does require a slightly different approach than training it up a support.

You can’t just toss a clematis on the soil and expect a perfect carpet of flowers.

Here are the key steps to successfully grow clematis on the ground.
 

1. Choose the Right Variety

While you can technically let any clematis grow on the ground, some varieties are much better suited for this than others.

Look for non-clinging, non-vining types like the herbaceous clematis or the integrifolia species.

These don’t have tendrils and naturally grow as sprawling clumps rather than vertical climbers.

Also consider vigorous montana varieties which can be spread out as large-scale ground cover.
 

2. Plant It Correctly

When you want clematis to grow on the ground, plant it in a location where it has room to spread.

Dig a hole that’s deep enough to bury the crown a few inches below the soil surface.

This encourages the plant to produce more stems from the base, creating a fuller ground cover.

Ensure the soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter for best results.
 

3. Help It Along in the Beginning

In the early stages, you may need to gently guide the stems along the ground.

Use small landscape pins or wire staples to hold the stems down until they root along the nodes.

Whenever a stem touches the soil, it can develop roots and create a new plant.

This layering effect will help you fill an area more quickly.
 

4. Provide Regular Water and Mulch

Growing clematis on the ground requires consistent moisture, especially during the first year.

Water deeply and regularly to encourage strong root development.

Mulch around the base of the plant with compost or bark chips to keep the roots cool.

Remember, clematis prefers its feet in the shade and its head in the sun.
 

Best Clematis Varieties To Grow On The Ground

Not all clematis are created equal when it comes to ground cover use.

Some will form a neat mound, while others will sprawl and wander.

Here are some of the best choices for you to let clematis grow on the ground.
 

1. Clematis Integrifolia

This is a top pick for ground cover because it’s a non-climbing, herbaceous clematis.

It forms a loose, bushy mound of stems that flop over gracefully.

The beautiful bell-shaped flowers in blue, purple, or white appear from early summer to fall.

It’s perfect for the front of a border or for spilling over a low wall.
 

2. Clematis Recta

Another herbaceous favorite is Clematis recta, which acts more like a tall perennial.

It produces masses of small, white, fragrant flowers that smother the plant.

While it grows upright, it often flops over under its own weight, which is why it works well as ground cover.

It can be cut back hard in spring to keep it lower and bushier.
 

3. Clematis ‘Arabella’

This is probably one of the most popular ground-cover clematis varieties available.

It’s a non-clinging type that produces an abundance of stunning, deep purple-blue flowers all summer.

If you let clematis grow on the ground with ‘Arabella’, you’ll be rewarded with a long blooming carpet.

It’s incredibly floriferous and looks fantastic when allowed to scramble through other plants.
 

4. Clematis ‘Wisley’

This variety is a vigorous grower that can be easily trained to run along the ground.

It has lovely, soft mauve-pink flowers with bright yellow centers.

It’s great for covering a large area or trailing over a bank.

‘Wisley’ is a strong grower that will quickly establish itself as a dense ground cover.
 

Maintenance Tips For Ground-Growing Clematis

Once you have your clematis growing on the ground, it’s not a set-it-and-forget-it situation.

They need some care to keep them looking their best.

Here are the essential maintenance tasks for ground-growing clematis.
 

1. Prune According to Type

You still need to prune clematis on the ground to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms.

For late-flowering types, cut them back hard in early spring to encourage new growth.

For early-flowering types, just remove dead or tangled stems after they finish blooming.

This keeps the ground cover neat and encourages denser flowering.
 

2. Keep an Eye Out for Pests and Diseases

Since the foliage is closer to the soil, it’s more prone to fungal issues like powdery mildew.

Ensure good air circulation by not planting them too densely.

Keep the area around the base clean and free of fallen debris.

Slugs and snails can also be a problem for ground cover clematis, so monitor for them regularly.
 

3. Feed Them Well

Because they are producing so much foliage and bloom, ground cover clematis need regular feeding.

Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in mid-summer.

Use a mulch of well-rotted manure or compost to provide slow-release nutrients.

This will keep your clematis on the ground healthy and vigorous.
 

So, Can Clematis Grow On The Ground?

Clematis can absolutely grow on the ground and thrive with the right care and variety selection.

It’s a versatile and beautiful way to use these incredible plants in your garden.

Whether you need erosion control, a living mulch, or just a stunning floral carpet, letting clematis grow on the ground is a fantastic option.

Just pick the right variety, plant it properly, and help it spread across the soil.

With a little patience, you’ll have a gorgeous, blooming ground cover that will be the envy of the neighborhood.