I am not a pro with clematis, but I do have one that dies back each year to the ground(3yrs) and comes back better each year so far. I do notice that the bottom leaves are the older leaves and don't look as fresh as the new leaves. If the plant is going to flower, I think you should be fine. Is this a fairly new plant, do you have any others doing the same? The white area may be some mold. I would ask at the local plant nursery.
Good Luck

* * * *
BFVISION

http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=2122269418&mode=guest

BFVISION yes it is fairly new, about 2 years old.
I just thought it had some kind of disease on it.
RottieLover my Clematis has morning sunlight, but its mainly in the shade.
I am not too worried about it at the moment, because it is healthy at the top with alot more buds on it than last year. But thanks for your advise anyway.

* * * *


"Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens".