Troubleshooting
Sweet Autumn Clematis problems — and how to fix them
Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora) 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
Sudden wilting and blackening of stems caused by Calophoma clematidina; prune to healthy buds below the wilted section and the plant usually regrows.
Powdery mildew
Common in dry summers; ensure adequate watering, improve airflow, and treat with a fungicide if severe.
Invasive self-seeding
Self-seeds prolifically and is invasive in parts of the eastern United States; deadhead spent flowers before seed dispersal or consider planting native alternatives.
Aphids
Cluster on new growth in spring; remove with water jets or insecticidal soap.
Earwigs
May nibble petals and leaves; use barrier traps or reduce hiding places (debris) around the base of the plant.
Prevent sweet autumn clematis problems before they start
Most sweet autumn clematis issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Sweet Autumn Clematis problems — FAQ
Why is my sweet autumn clematis clematis wilt?
Sudden wilting and blackening of stems caused by Calophoma clematidina; prune to healthy buds below the wilted section and the plant usually regrows.
Why is my sweet autumn clematis powdery mildew?
Common in dry summers; ensure adequate watering, improve airflow, and treat with a fungicide if severe.
Why is my sweet autumn clematis invasive self-seeding?
Self-seeds prolifically and is invasive in parts of the eastern United States; deadhead spent flowers before seed dispersal or consider planting native alternatives.
Why is my sweet autumn clematis aphids?
Cluster on new growth in spring; remove with water jets or insecticidal soap.
Why is my sweet autumn clematis earwigs?
May nibble petals and leaves; use barrier traps or reduce hiding places (debris) around the base of the plant.