PM, there is chicken wire on each section of the arbor. Not all of the plants are climbers though, so there is string tying several plants up. On the fence behind the baptisia is clematis Blue Belle. Woody, I really like Pagoda. And Blue Boy too. And a ton of others too obviously! Aotearoa is a really strong grower for me too. You might give it a try if you find one. I know Lost Horizons had it at one point. Maybe worth a call to them to see if they'd put one of these 3 plants aside for you. They were all a tangled mess when I was last there.

Hagley Hybrid is a type III that should be cut back hard every year. Cutting Claire down won't hurt her either though it may delay bloom.

I also had trouble finding any of the Raymond Evison Clematis. But I did find Crystal Fountain - which is absolutely beautiful at Minter Gardens Nursery in Chilliwack B. C. Here is their toll free number - I spoke directly with Brian Minter 1-888-MINTERS Maybe you can ask him if they ship or something??? I am not sure if they have the variety you are looking for but if anyone does I would think he would? Good luck - let me know how it turns out Golden

Thanks for the info and your take on the matter Michael. This summer has been a bear for those of us in the SE US with over 60 days of 90+ degree weather (normal is 29 per summer) and minimal rainfall. In my book, anything that is going to draw moisture out of the soil is something that I will avoid like the plague. I would prefer something that will insulate the soil and retain moisture and decompose over time and add moisture retaining capacity to the soil. Those in areas who have not been affected by drought conditions are okay in using ground covers since any moisture they draw out of the soil will probably be minimal and easily replaced. Those of us enduring the conditions we have endured and whose state governments are talking outright bans on outdoor watering will do whatever it takes to maintain soil moisture, including not using or recommending the use of ground covers as a means of maintaining soil moisture levels. Hope that you appreciate my take on the matter and where I am coming from.