Hi all,

So here's my problem. I live in western Massachusetts (Zone 5), and I ordered some potted Etoile Violette clematis plants several weeks ago that arrived on Halloween. Another part of the same order is supposed to arrive next week. We already have snow in the forecast, so I'm guessing it's too late to get these in the ground this year. So what do I do with them? Can I put them in pots and hope they make it through the winter? Or do I try to plant them and mulch them heavily once the ground starts to freeze?

Any suggestions or tips are sincerely appreciated. Thanks!

Welcome Bob: I had two Clematis in pots this year which I never got to plant out. One is in my basement, one in the unheated greenhouse. They are extremely hardy plants, but If you are just receiving yours now, they may be very small. If such is the case, I would bring them all inside for the winter and plant them out in the spring. Put them in a patio door window or a basement, just don't let them dry out completely through the winter, don't overwater either. Have overwintered many Clematis in my cool basement, before planting out. Should be no problem. Cheers!

Thank you, Frank! This is very helpful information. I will repot them and put them in the basement for the winter.