I lost a whole Clematis to what I assume was wilt. This was probably some time in June. I read somewhere (cannot remember where) that if you trim it back it might come back the next year.

Does anyone have any experience with this? I have ordered a new Clematis that is similar to replace it. It was part of a combo that I created by mistake. I really loved it and want to have it again next year.

Ha! I read the info here! During Clematis week.

Still, any real world experience would be appreciated.

Jennifer...

This is not real life experience, but I think understanding the "why" of something is a step forward. It appears that clematis wilt is caused by a fungus.

http://gardening.about.com/od/...

Whether or not the plant can come back next year is something I can't answer. Or if there is further treatment required to rid the plant of fungal infection is also another question I can't answer.

yeah, its a fungus that usually attacks in the early stages of growth. we had it big time on several of our clematis plants three years ago. must have been something in the air...? they all bloom on new growth so we cut them all down to the ground. they put on new growth that same year but nothing to write home about. but three years later they are blooming like gangbusters. to my knowledge it wont harm the plant itself, but it will do damage to existing leaves and stems.