Question
I transplanted one old hydrangea and two newer ones right next to each other on the east-side of the house.  The older one and one of the newer ones grew nicely but did not bud or flower; the other newer one, right next to them, grew nicely and had beautiful flowers. Can you tell me why the other two did not bloom?  Also, do I cut them back for the winter and if yes, how far back.  Or do I leave the old wood alone?  Thanks for your help

Answer
Hi Cecilia, Most hydrangeas bloom on old wood.  Only in the last few years have we had varieties that also flower on new wood...Endless Summer, Penny Mac, Dooley, etc. Hydrangeas should be pruned right after spring bloom. Take out a few of the oldest canes at that time.  Do not prune now, you are cutting away flowers.
The east side of the house is the worst place for them. If you get a frost on the swelling bud, you've lost the flowers. If you plant them on the north side, the ground is cooler, the buds swell later, hopefully past your last frost.  Jim