The peony nursery that used to be near here cut the stems off and lifted, divided these early - like in September. Once the overwintering red buds are set on the root crowns they are ready to be handled. Another thing these plants have in common with woody shrubs, in addition to setting overwintering buds, is the majority of root activity occurring in fall. I suppose a problem with digging now is that recent fall root growth may be interfered with.

Dig the hydrangea after the leaves die. Both kinds of plants are better dug bare-rooted, in order to get as much total root mass as possible, than having the roots cut back in an effort to move intact soil balls of manageable size.

thank you! does peony foliage normally die back in the winter here?

Yes, it does

peonies can be divided and planted in the fall in the PNW - all the way through November and often through December. The peony site attached has planting instructions and if you request, dividing pointers.
Jay

Here is a link that might be useful: Brooks Gardens

I've successfully moved Hydrangeas in the snow when the ground wasn't frozen. Not just a couple, but dozens.

They're easy to start from cuttings.

Mike

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