Severe pruning is not harmful if done in the spring before new growth begins. A light application of a complete fertilizer will enhance the growth that comes from the plant base. Early spring flowering vines should be pruned after they flower, since new growth that develops after pruning will produce flower buds for next season. Vines that flower on growth made this year, as do many of the hybrid clematis, can be pruned in early spring a few feet to a few inches from the ground. The type of support provided for vines can influence their growth and development.
Some vines produce rapid vertical growth with few lateral branches except near the top.
Such vines can be pinched and tied, or leaders can be pruned back in the growing season to develop more horizontal branches to cover and fill in quicker. Generally the horizontal branches grow slower, but will produce more leaves and flowers than vertical branches and stems. Knowing how a vine climbs and grows can increase the ease of maintenance. It is important to realize that pruning can be used to enhance the quality of the vine and meet particular landscape needs in the garden. The following suggest should help to maintain selected vines in your garden.