Q.I Think The Hydrangeas Were Planted Too Close To The Peonies. Should I Dig Them Up And Move Them Further Away?
The plants are less than a foot apart. The hydrangeas bloomed before they were planted but have not bloomed since.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
It’s very likely your hydrangeas are feeling a bit crowded. Less than a foot of space between them and the peonies can create competition underground where roots quietly wrestle for moisture and nutrients — and above ground, light and air movement become limited. Hydrangeas, in particular, are sensitive to crowding and root disruption, and that could be why they bloomed before planting but have since remained quiet. When transplanted, they often go into a bit of shock, and without enough room to reestablish, they’ll hold off on flowering.
While it’s possible they’ll adjust over time, giving them more space now — ideally 2–3 feet between plants — will greatly improve their odds. Fall or early spring would be the best time to move them, when the weather’s cooler and the plants are less stressed. In the meantime, watch for signs of yellowing or stunted growth, which could confirm root stress. Peonies also benefit from a little breathing room, so spacing them out may help both plants thrive in the long run.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hydrangea
