Troubleshooting
Clematis 'Mrs N. Thompson' problems — and how to fix them
Clematis 'Mrs N. Thompson' (Clematis 'Mrs N. Thompson') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Clematis wilt
Rapid wilting caused by Calophoma clematidina. Cut back to ground level; the plant typically regenerates from the roots the following season.
Powdery mildew
Common in dry, warm weather. Water consistently at the root zone and ensure good airflow. Treat with a mildew-specific fungicide if needed.
Vine weevil
Larvae feed on roots, causing sudden collapse in container-grown plants. Use biological nematode treatments in late summer.
Scale insects
Brown or white crusts on stems reduce vigour. Treat with a horticultural oil or systemic insecticide in late winter.
Over-pruning
As a Group 2 clematis, only remove dead or weak stems in late winter — hard pruning eliminates the first flowering flush on old wood.
Prevent clematis 'mrs n. thompson' problems before they start
Most clematis 'mrs n. thompson' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Clematis 'Mrs N. Thompson' problems — FAQ
Why is my clematis 'mrs n. thompson' clematis wilt?
Rapid wilting caused by Calophoma clematidina. Cut back to ground level; the plant typically regenerates from the roots the following season.
Why is my clematis 'mrs n. thompson' powdery mildew?
Common in dry, warm weather. Water consistently at the root zone and ensure good airflow. Treat with a mildew-specific fungicide if needed.
Why is my clematis 'mrs n. thompson' vine weevil?
Larvae feed on roots, causing sudden collapse in container-grown plants. Use biological nematode treatments in late summer.
Why is my clematis 'mrs n. thompson' scale insects?
Brown or white crusts on stems reduce vigour. Treat with a horticultural oil or systemic insecticide in late winter.
Why is my clematis 'mrs n. thompson' over-pruning?
As a Group 2 clematis, only remove dead or weak stems in late winter — hard pruning eliminates the first flowering flush on old wood.