That means you may not have any warning before an entire clematis vine turns brown.

On older clematis plants, the woody portion near the ground is often the first area affected.

This may also be the area where the spores overwinter.

Clematis plant with wilting leaves (clematis wilt), caused by fungus Phoma clematidina

Chauney Dunford / Getty Images

Left untreated, clematis wilt will spread throughout the plant.

It sounds drastic, but it can secure your plant.

Dispose of the cuttings rather thancompostthem.

Clematis (Clematis viticella) ‘Madame Julia Correvon’. Aland Islands, Finland

Michael Davis / Getty Images

Since the roots are not affected, new shoots should emerge from the base shortly after cutting.

If your plant does not re-sprout within a few weeks, don’t give up.

Keep the clematis roots watered even if there is no top growth.

Clematis stems emerging from the below the ground and shoots forming on the pruned stems, close-up

Maarigard / Getty Images

Plants Susceptible to Clematis Wilt

Clematis wilt can attack any punch in of clematis.

Tips for Keeping Your Clematis Healthy

Healthy plants will have better resistance to disease.

Choose a good planting site with at least 6 hours of sun daily.

confirm your location has good air circulation.

Choose a variety with some disease resistance and keep the area around the plant free of debris.

Clematis.Washington State University Extension.

Clematis Wilt.Missouri Botanical Garden.

Can I put disease-infested plant material in my compost pile?Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.