Early March, and several of my Clematis are showing signs of growth. I have some C. viticella
which I need to cut back. Would I be able to propagate from these stems? One stem has 5-6"
of new growth at the end, the others are 1-2" along the hardwood stems. Seems a shame to
throw them out. Thanks in advance.

Welcome to ATP, RaeHelen.

I've never tried it so don't know if it would work. Layering is always worth a try.

I propagated some clematis montana marjorie using stem cuttings. I just dipped the end of the cuttings in hormone rooting powder before potting them; it worked fine for all but one of the cuttings. Not sure if the same would be true for all types of clematis, though.