Clematis are happiest when their roots are kept cool and moist, so try to plant them where that the base of the plants will be lightly shaded by other, lower-growing species. Otherwise, use a clematis root protector, or top-dress the rootball (avoiding the immediate crown), with a generous layer of shingle or pebbles. This clematis is herbaceous and will die back during the spring - remove spent stems and foliage to the ground in February, and apply a thick layer of mulch to suppress weeds, feed the soil, and keep the root area moist and cool for the growing season ahead.