Will my clematis come back after wilting?

Yes, most clematis will regrow from the roots even if the top growth dies back. Be patient and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.

Should I use a fungicide for wilting?

Fungicides are generally ineffective once the wilt has started. Pruning is the most reliable way to manage the issue.

Why is my clematis suddenly drooping? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the base of the stem for dark lesions or holes.
Check the soil moisture to ensure it is not waterlogged.
Look for any physical damage to the vine.

Likely causes

Clematis Wilt
Most likely
How to tell: The vine suddenly wilts and turns brown, often affecting only one part of the plant. You might see a dark lesion at the base of the stem.
What to do: Cut the affected stem back to the ground immediately. Dispose of the infected material in the trash, not your compost pile, to prevent spread.
Vine Borers
Possible
How to tell: The vine wilts above a specific point on the stem where the borer has entered. Look for small holes or sawdust like frass near the base.
What to do: Locate the entry hole and carefully slice the stem vertically to remove the larvae. If the damage is severe, prune the stem below the entry point.

Drooping in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your clematis

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the entire plant collapses, it may be a severe fungal infection that requires removing the whole vine. Minor wilting on one stem is usually manageable with pruning.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the base of your clematis cool and shaded with mulch or low growing perennials. Avoid wounding the stems during weeding or gardening.

Clematis: drooping? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your clematis and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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Questions people ask

Will my clematis come back after wilting?: Yes, most clematis will regrow from the roots even if the top growth dies back. Be patient and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Should I use a fungicide for wilting?: Fungicides are generally ineffective once the wilt has started. Pruning is the most reliable way to manage the issue.

Guides to these causes

Clematis Wilt

Why is my clematis suddenly drooping?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your clematis?