You can do both now if you want to, but it means you'll get much later flowering if you hard prune them, so I'd be inclined to take off as little as possible with both.

Thank you Bamboo, I thought that might be the case but wanted to be sure. I will do as you advised.

Very remiss of me not to comment on your being in hospital rohima - I hope whatever it was has been sorted out satisfactorily and that you are well.

Thank you Bamboo. I had kidney failure following a relapse drom cancer. Have again started a new regime of chemo therapy. First day back in the garden today, just pruning the clematis. Will take each day at a time.

Just read this Rohima and wanted to wish you well. Take things slowly the garden can look after itself for a while.

Dear oh dear, you never know what people are suffering, do you. I'm sorry, Rohima, hope the treatment isn't too awful and that it's successful.

Same from me, Rohima. I'm sure the plants will be able to look after themselves while you have treatment. I hope you're able to get back to "play" properly in the garden soon. Just take it easy in the meantime. Best wishes....

Thank you both.