I have had an autumn clematis for the past four years and it is always gorgeous. However this year, mid June it looks dead, no growth. I have never prunned it....I'm learning only now that this is something I should have done? Should I cut back the dead vines and leaves 3 feet of the base?? Or is it too late? Any suggestions would be helpful.

As far as I know, the only reason to prune an autumn clematis is to keep it from getting to big.

So, it is nothing that you did.

It does look dead.

Looks dead doesn't mean is dead. It might come back next year.

Thank you! Maybe there is still hope it might bloom this summer??? Maybe??

Maybe try adding some compost and a watering mixed with a little epsom salts to see if it will stimulate growth from the roots. Since it wasn't cut back, often you'll see new growth at the tips of the remaining stems.