In my garden deer are not very interested in Clematis. Probably, because they have more delicious treats - Lilies, Hostas, etc. On the other hand, they like to vary their menu. I will not be surprised if they will destroy my Clematis garden one day. After all, they ate my Iris plants (which are considered to be very deer resistant).

Here in my garden in W.Montana, the deer don't bother the clematis much....just the rare occasional nibble. I do keep most of my prize ones inside a fenced garden.

Thanks for all the input. The clems will be planted inside a fenced garden but they will be growing up the garden fence so one side will be accessible to the deer. Perhaps there will be enough other material on the outer side to keep them entertained. Thanks again. Kat

The good news is that pruning helps Clematis so they likely won't do any lasting harm.

They ate my only bud that I was so excited about a few days ago! 😭

There are sprays that will discourage deer.

We used to spray for deer, but the spray attracted sooo many biting flies!