When should I prune my Clematis? Is there a specific time of year when this beautiful climbing vine should be meticulously trimmed to encourage optimal growth and prolific flowering? Could the timing vary depending on the particular variety of Clematis I have? Am I to consider blooming cycles as a critical determinant in this delicate horticultural process? Should I be aware of the different pruning groups that classify clematises based on their flowering habits? Might spring, summer, or even late winter be preferable for this essential task? As I ponder these questions, I wonder how the health and vigor of my plant can be enhanced through proper pruning techniques. Would pruning after the blooms fade in late summer contribute to a more robust growth next season? Or is early spring the prime time to address those unruly vines before they burst forth with new life? What subtleties of technique should I also keep in mind?