Becky, it shouldn't take three years to see a good performance from a clematis from a reputable vendor. The plants should already have a year or more of growth on them before shipping, even in the 2-1/2" size. Most 3-1/2" to 4" plants have two years of growth. They will creep for you the first year in the ground, but they should take off the next year. Also, don't be fooled by the majority of the gallon size plants you see in nurseries. Many of those start out the season as 2-1/2 or 3-1/2" plants and are just repotted to gallons in February or March. It gives the plants room to spread out and also gives the nursery the convenience of trellising... plus it gives the illusion of an older plant.
What size roses are you starting with? I've found my tiny roses take quite a while to get going, but my gallons typically give good performance within a season here in our warmer climate.
