Plant of the Week: Sparky™ Clematis

Plant of the Week is written by Jane Beggs-Joles

Sparky™ Clematis are a fun group of new varieties with really distinctive blooms. They look like sea stars or sparklers, but these charmers don't need a special aquarium or come with a warning label. They are spring blooming vines that will flower on old wood April through June, and occasionally produce some flowers on the summer growth, too. They come in three colors: Sparky™ Blue (right),  Sparky™ Pink (left) and Sparky™ Purple. Sometimes I look at series of plants and think I just want to stick to one color, but I kind of like all three of these planted together. All are hardy to USDA Zone 5 and will grow about 6-8' tall and 2' wide.  They will grow in full sun or part shade, but we do recommend planting them on a sheltered north and east exposure.

Happy birthday, Sparky Anderson! His birthday isn't until Saturday, but this gives you time to bake a cake and maybe book a last minute ticket to see some spring training. Speaking of spring training, it isn't just for baseball. Garden centers can use some spring training, too! Luckily, Proven Winners® has their 2020 Certified Garden Center Program up and ready to go. This is a great way for garden centers to get staff ready for spring so they can serve you better! Play ball!