Sounds like Clematis Wilt, Frillylily.
So glad you're breathing some new life into clematises, Sue. Sonoma Batik is so vibrant!
My Southold friend, who moved to Michigan, wasted no time in ordering two of Will Goodwin since she loved them here. Her Mayleen, on her shed, was a sight to behold!
While going over photos tonight I went through all the photos of Dr. Ruppel and love the way it poses for photos!
Some years I prune back all but the Class 1 clem's and they do bloom later than normal but it's always a welcome sight. They do not do well in extended cool springs here but love the warm spring weather. Next year, for the first time, I may prune back all the Class 2's as they finish their first round of blooms and see if I can keep up with them. I've read directions that say to prune them by half and the following spring to only prune back scraggly growth. We'll see how I do.
