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Coaxed open by the first warming rays of spring sunshine, early-flowering clematis transform the garden with a flurry of pastel shades. Usually the first to stir is the evergreen Clematis armandii which starts unfurling waxy white blooms as early as March, just before expanding its bronzy leaves. Get close enough to the large clusters of flowers and you'll be astonished at their delicious perfume which is laced with rich almond undertones. This clematis requires the protection of a sheltered wall where its shield-shaped glossy leaves will form a cladding all through the year. For a wonderful welcome grow the variety 'Appleblossom' which has pink-suffused buds around a sunny doorway.
Another evergreen clematis is Clematis x cartmanii 'Joe', which transforms its garlands of ferny leaves into snowy swags for a few glorious weeks in March and April. This species is more compact and easy to fit in to the smallest of spaces. It makes a wonderful display in a pot or try it draped over the edge of an alpine sink. A new evergreen variety is Clematis 'Pixie' which virtually smothers fine lacy foliage under a froth of scented green flowers in spring. Both these varieties look superb threading through dwarf shrubs such as hebes or dwarf conifers and appreciate the extra cosiness afforded by their supporting hosts.
As the name suggests Clematis alpina is well used to chilly mountain slopes, so it's ideal for cold or exposed places. Until recently species with purple flowers were the most widely available, but several varieties have been selected which now include blue, pink and white shades. All are easy to recognise from their simple four petalled flowers that nod in profusion among their foliage. The most popular variety is 'Francis Rivis' with large and abundant pale blue flowers that twist in an almost groovy fashion. Clematis alpina 'Willy' has white flowers that are stained red on the backs of the petals and will create a raspberry ripple effect across any dreary north-facing wall. A reasonably restrained habit ensures that any variety of Clematis alpina can easily be supported on trellis or wire mesh. You don't even need to worry about pruning, unless they outgrow their space and then it's simply a case of trimming back the stems after flowering. As an extra bonus their flowers are replaced by swirls of fluffy seeds which often linger right into the winter.
Chinese clematis, Clematis macropetala has similar nodding flowers. The blooms are made up of fine segments giving them the appearance of tiny frilly skirts. Any of its varieties deserve a place in the garden but the large rosy blooms of 'Markham's Pink' are especially charming when they are illuminated in the spring sunshine. Despite its dainty looks, this tough clematis can withstand the coldest and most exposed parts of the garden. Perhaps one of the most valuable uses for it is when trained on an obelisk in the border to provide much needed early colour and vertical interest among emerging perennials. Use a simple tripod of canes held together with wire for support, a woven willow obelisk or one fashioned from wrought iron.

Shrubs such as cotoneasters and pyracanthas, which are essential for their autumn interest, make ideal supports for macropetala varieties, whose decorative displays last just until the ruby and amber berries of their host reach their own colourful best.

This clematis is also a good choice for growing in a large pot, either training the stems upwards, or allowing its flowering tresses to tumble over the edge. The effect can be magical if you choose a tall container such as an elegant 'Ali Baba'. If growing in containers, it's worth remembering that all clematis like their roots cool and damp so keep the compost in containers moist during the summer, feed regularly and they will reward you with many years of colour.
Several varieties of Clematis montana bridge the gap between spring and summer with great swathes of sugary pink or white blooms. Huge walls, sheds, even trees can be covered with masses of simple four-petalled blooms which are often deliciously vanilla-scented. Thankfully this clematis seems to thrive if left unpruned and only needs cutting back if it becomes overly large. Clematis montana var. rubens and 'Tetrarose' have been the favourite pinks for many years but it's worth looking for newer varieties such as 'Broughton Star' and deep pink 'Warwickshire Rose'. Several new white varieties are also available including 'Primrose Star' with creamy blooms. All of these will romp quickly over supports and this extra verve can be very useful at disguising eyesores such as old tree stumps or garages, especially if partnered with a vigorous ivy such as Hedera colchica 'Sulphur Heart'.
Wherever you choose to plant these early clematis, a little soil preparation will ensure they establish quickly. Well-rotted manure or garden compost mixed into the soil will both feed the plant and keep the roots cool in summer. It's also worth putting a generous layer of mulch on the surface to retain moisture and help suppress weeds. Apart from the occasional pruning after flowering, this initial care when planting is just about all the fussing required.
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