Thanks. Yes, I'm sure they will die down to the ground. We have annabelle's that do that and they almost always come back. I did lose some, but I think it's 'cause we had a dry fall and I forgot to water them in. I'd like to put them where they get afternoon sun. I've heard morning sun is best, but I'd really like them to brighten up a back corner.

In your zone, unless you winter protected the hydrangeas, the above ground canes likely died over the winter. If they were dead, you did the right thing. Hydrangeas bloom primarily on old growth, but they can produce a few blooms on new growth sometimes. Supposedly Endless Summer is better than most at blooming on new growth. I haven't noticed it myself, but it's supposedly true. You may get some blooms this year, but if you winter protected the canes, you would get a lot more. As far as the health of the shrub is concerned, cutting back canes won't hurt it.

Very nice picture. I like the contrast. I thought this guy would get big so I nixed it for one location here. Is your shorter growing season keeping hydrangeas size in check (or do you prune)? How long do your BB blooms last?

Blushing bride was introduction of last year and looked quite nice in the nurseries. Prices were too steep for me so I will have to wait. Endless summer I had for couple of years and it has been relialbe performer for me. We shall see how they tolerate this winter when they almost went into full bud this unusually warm Jan.