How can I help the bottom leaves of my climatis plant stay green?

Hi, Carmen!

I found an article that may be of interest: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/clematis-with-yellow-leaves.htm I hope this helps!

How old is the plant? Don't give it stuff like epsom salt or others items high only in certain minerals/nutrients unless you have tested soil and for sure know what the soil is lacking. It is not uncommon for plants to lose some of its lower foliage,many plants/vines especially loose the bottom /lower leaves all the energy goes up into ends and flowers. Water stress could well be contributing to the yellow lower leaves as well. Water the ground really well around base of plant,needs good drainage no standing water. Check your clematis daily to ensure the soil stays moist, not dry or damp,just so no root rot begins(drainage) Do not pile mulch or soil high around base of plant. Clematis likes it's feet/bottom vine/leaves in shade & tops/flowers in sun. Organic compost is best for any plants/soil because it the most natural fertilizer. For Clematis

Give young plants a feed of liquid fertilizer every six weeks or so.

Established plants can have a slow-release feed each spring and fall.

If fertilizers are even warranted/needed, organic slow-release fertilizers are top pick.

Adding Mycorrhizae to soil which play important roles in plant nutrition, soil biology and soil chemistry really help with soil health which inturn grows healthy plants.Also organic pesticides which do not kill soil microbes,even buying and adding earthworms or red wrigglers to soil are beneficial to both soil and plant health.

Hi Carmen, this may assist you, Soil should be well draining and not prone to hold moisture. Compost worked into at least 8 inches of soil prior to planting can enhance drainage and add important nutrients. Air movement is also important for healthy plants. Nutrient causes of yellowing clematis leaves include iron or magnesium deficiency. Iron deficiency means the pH is high. Amend with iron chelate. Magnesium deficiency can be taken care of by mixing 1 teaspoon of Epsom salts with 1 gallon of water. Use the mixture 4 times per month to restore the leaves to their glorious green.

Read more at Gardening Know How: Why Are Clematis Leaves Yellow: Care Of Clematis With Yellow Leaves https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/clematis-with-yellow-leaves.htm

Hi Carmen, hope this helps you out,

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/clematis-wilt-treatment.htm