pruning hardy hibiscus

Last year we purchased two hardy hibiscus. We cut them down last fall after the first frost and we notice we don't have as many stems this year as they had when we purchased them. Did we do the right thing or should we leave them alone this year?
DH cut back our hydrangea also and wonders why we don't have any flowers on them. lol

I rarely ever cut mine back. I like to leave last years stems to help support the next years stems. The old stems also help gather snow and leaves for a bit of extra winter protection.

You did nothing wrong by cutting back last year's stems as they come back from the roots the following Spring.

It could be that when you purchased the new plants, the tips had been pinched back and consequently were bushier. Next season when the stems are about 18" tall, try pinching the tips for a fuller appearence.

Great advice, Moby. It could also be they weren't as full due to being transplanted. Lots of perennials and shrubs take a couple years to get back to speed after being transplanted.