The climbing showstopper bringing colour, romance and vertical magic to British gardens this summer.

There is a moment in early summer when you walk past a garden and stop, completely caught out by a wall or fence transformed by a tumble of saucer-shaped blooms. More often than not, you are looking at a clematis in its full glory. Known affectionately as the queen of climbers, clematis is one of the most rewarding plants you can grow, and June is when many varieties hit their stride.

Whether you have a sun-drenched south-facing wall, a tired fence panel in need of softening, or an obelisk waiting for a starring feature, there is a clematis with your name on it.

Why we love clematis

With over 300 species ranging from early bloomers through to late-summer and repeat flowering varieties, clematis offers an extraordinary spectrum of colour, form and flowering season. From the delicate nodding bells of the alpina types to the giant flat-faced blooms of the popular large-flowered hybrids, there is something to suit every garden style.

Their climbing ability makes them ideal for fences, trellises, pergolas, walls and obelisks, adding precious vertical interest and helping you make the most of every square foot of garden space. Pair them with a climbing rose for a truly classic English garden look.

New in: Raymond Evison Clematis

We are thrilled to be stocking a selection from the Raymond Evison Clematis collection this month. Raymond has spent over 60 years searching for, breeding and developing some of the world's finest clematis from his nursery in Guernsey. With more than 100 cultivars to his name, many of them featuring in his gold medal winning Chelsea Flower Show stands, his plants are widely considered the gold standard.

If you are looking to invest in a clematis that will perform season after season, his varieties are a beautiful place to start. Pop in and have a look while stocks last.

How to grow clematis successfully

Clematis have a reputation for being a little fussy, but in truth they are very generous plants once you understand what they want. The golden rule to remember is: heads in the sun, feet in the shade.

Planting

Choose a spot with well-draining soil enriched with plenty of organic matter. Plant deep, with the crown sitting 2 to 3 inches below the soil surface. This little trick gives your clematis the best chance of bouncing back if it is ever affected by clematis wilt.

Support

Give your clematis a sturdy trellis, obelisk, or wires to scramble up from day one. Tie in new shoots regularly to train growth where you want it.

Water and mulch

Water generously, particularly during dry spells, and mulch around the base to lock in moisture and keep the roots cool. A few well-placed flat stones or low-growing perennials at the base will shade the root zone beautifully.

Feeding

Feed in spring and again in midsummer with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to encourage vigorous growth and abundant blooms.

Pruning

Pruning depends on type. Early-flowering varieties are best pruned straight after they bloom. Late-flowering types can be cut back hard in early spring. Repeat-flowering varieties benefit from a lighter prune in early spring and again after the first flush of flowers. If you are unsure which group yours belongs to, our team is always happy to help you identify it.

Alex's June gardening jobs

June is one of the busiest and most beautiful months in the garden. Here is what our Plant Area Manager Alex recommends keeping on top of this month:

•         Use plant supports to prevent tall or floppy plants getting damaged in the wind.

•         Feed baskets and containers with a liquid fertiliser every 2 to 4 weeks.

•         Give grass a boost with a lawn feed to keep it looking in top condition.

•         Check roses for problems like black spot or powdery mildew. Spray with a preventative if necessary.

•         Keep on top of weeds through a variety of measures, from hoeing to using a weed suppressant fabric.

•         Tie in new shoots of climbing plants such as clematis, climbing rose and honeysuckle.

•         Bedding plants can safely be planted out now the risk of frost has passed.

•         Make sure bird baths are regularly topped up with water.

Houseplant of the Month: Sansevieria

If your indoor jungle could do with a low-maintenance hero, look no further than the Sansevieria. Commonly known as the snake plant (and occasionally by the rather unfortunate name of mother-in-law's tongue), this architectural beauty is one of the easiest houseplants going. Perfect for beginners, busy households, and anyone whose track record with leafier plants is a little patchy.

It is also a brilliant air purifier, quietly working away to improve the quality of your indoor space. A word of caution: Sansevieria is not safe for pets or children, so position thoughtfully if you have either at home.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal, but Sansevieria is wonderfully adaptable and will tolerate shadier corners too.

Water: Wait until the soil has dried out completely, then water thoroughly and let it drain. Never leave it sitting in water, as this is the fastest route to root rot.

Humidity: Best in drier environments. Avoid steamy bathrooms and humidifier zones.

Feed: Once a month with a liquid succulent feed during the growing months of April through September.

Height: Depending on the variety, expect anything from a compact 50cm up to an impressive 1.5m.

Come and see us

June is the perfect month to wander the plant area and dream up something new for your garden or home. Whether you are picking up a Raymond Evison clematis to transform a bare fence, gathering bedding plants for the borders, or treating yourself to a sculptural Sansevieria for the kitchen windowsill, we are here to help.

Pop in this month and let us know what is growing well for you. We love hearing your garden stories.