It needs some sun to grow at its best. Soil moisture & soil nutrient competition from the tree may not be good if the tree has shallow roots. Clay soil is usually not the best medium but ammended clay might be fine.

But are you saying that the hydrangea is in full shade? Luis

My climbing hydrangea gets 4 to 5 hours of sunlight and is growing but not blooming. I replanted this from my old house to the new location 6 years ago, got blooms on the first year and none after wards.

Even the pink hydrangeas in the garden are not blooming. Only the tree hydrangeas and oak leaf variety are in full bloom.

Do I need to use any special feed or fertilizer?

I agree with Luis - a climbing hydrangea not growing at all is most likely due to too much root competition from the tree. It does take time for them to establish and bloom - 5-7 years is commonly quoted - but no growth at all during this period is unusual unless the tree is stealing all the nutrients and soil moisture. I'd try babying the little guy with extra water and supplemental fertilizer until it is large enough to fend for itself.

As Dr Dirr calls this Lady ~ the crowned *Queen of the Twining World* although not picky as far are soil is concerned slow to establish & patience will be rewarded!!! Once established will take off *without looking back*!!!

Mine is in f/s & occasionally get scorched but has not complained ~ I use her to cover-up ugly 40 ft retaining wall she's close to accomplishing the job I set her to do!!!

Hope this helps!