I have to say that I have quite a lot of Clematis, some over 20 years old. I have bought at least six of the "Evipo" line, and I am quite certain that they have all passed away - just as well, because the main fault with same, is that most if not all are one time bloom only, and I was never very impressed with the one-time bloom. Having said that, you have the plant thus let's have at it! Of your possible placings, I would suggest that the great climbing rose "New Dawn" is a very late bloomer and if I have learned one thing from these forums with regard to Clematis, it is to grow them intertwined with climbing roses, so they both bloom at the same time. Just an unbelievable picture with the added benefit that a Spring to Fall clematis (purple Jackmanii for example, and there are others in Group C) will use the climbing rose for a structure to climb up on, thus no need for a trellis. I have two pink "New Dawn" climbers with purple Jackmanii climbing up through them each year because they both are blooming at the same time. So bear in mind, that if mixing with other plants, that they bloom at similar times. As you mentioned, the cardinal rule is to have the roots in shade and the tops in Sun. However, some good planting spots can be lost using that rule. The key is to plant the Clematis deeper and hill it up a little but not hard compacted or new shoots won't punch through. You can plant whatever plants in front of it, to complement each other, and shade the base of the clematis at the same time. I can't find that particular Evipo 029 on the breeders site, but Bumplbea says it is a minature and not a tall climber. So if you can plant in Sun, do it! I very seldom if ever fertilize Clematis or water them either, except at the very start. I also don't ever prune Clematis until I am absolutely certain which Group it is in. If you don't know, just wait until it completes it's first year AND a half. If after carefully examining the old vines, even if you have to break a small piece off the old top looking for green pith and check every tendril JOINT on the old vine looking for new shoots next Spring, and looking for new ground shoots. If it by chance is a taller climber (doubtful) it will climb up its old vines, thus no trellising necessary. You then should be able to deduce what pruning you can do without cutting off the following years new growth, possibly. You are correct, the Clematis Forum, unfortunately, is seldom followed, but keep us posted on your decision a planted picture pic would be even better! Give her a go!! Cheers!
