What should I plant around clematis growing up my mailbox?

[LaydeeBug]

The clematis I planted last year is coming back (I think next year will be a banner year for my clematis) but I am afraid of weedwacking it, so I wanted to plant something around them, but have no idea what? Loriope? bulbs? Hostas? Astibe?

I want them to live in harmony, lol

[asiliveandbreathe]

1. At the link - sweet peas, lettuce or basil or chives..edible and color..

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/plant-base-clematis-40998.html

Happy gardening....

[Cracklin Charlie]

2. I like to put big chunks of broken flowerpot around the crown.

For protection and shade.

Hosts would be lovely underneath, also

[WhiteTara]

3. Here are a few ideas

http://homeguides.sfgate.com/plant-base-clematis-40998.html

http://www.gardenguides.com/127525-companion-flower-clematis.html

happy gardening!

[NRaleighLiberal]

4. zinnias (direct seed, easy!) - dahlia (ditto) - short lantana....so many choices!

[LaydeeBug]

5. Climbing roses

I am super excited now!

[TygrBright]

6. Something that will shade the clematis crown where it meets the earth.

"Head in the sun, feet in the shade
My clematis has got it made."

Depending on how much sun the area gets, some options include nepeta, agastache, achillea (for sun) or hostas, astilbe, convallaria (shade).

Enjoy! Most clematis get along pretty well with other perennials, so long as they have something to climb on.

helpfully,
Bright

[Chipper Chat]

7. Iris

sword-stems and rhizomes will protect the clematis roots all year.