Clematis alpina is a lovely early flowering clematis with nodding blue flowers with a white centre. They are excellent for a small garden as they only grow to between 8 - 12ft (3 - 5m). Grow them as here over a trellis or if you have an old tree stump this also makes a good support. They will tolerate being planted in any aspect but are especially happy in a cool shady spot. When you are planting one make sure the pot is well soaked before planting and then water in well. As with any new planting check on the watering while the plant is established. They are pruned after flowering when any weak growth or dead stems are removed, the plant can be reduced in size at this time if required. If you are growing it over an old wall or stump in a wilder area of the garden there is no need to prune. Look out for the variety Clematis alpina "Frances Rivis" which will have good dark blue flowers that are slightly larger than the species. Also keep an eye out for Clematis macropetela varieties as they are similar to the C. alpina in flower shape but flower slightly later and have the same care requirements. Clematis macropetela "Markham Pink" is a good pink variety.