Lonicera x purpusii with wilting new growth

Can anyone advise why my lonicera x purpusii has wilting new growth? As first new leaves came out, they looked very yellow, so I added some acidifier to the soil. The new growth is now a healthy green colour, but the new leaves are all wilting. The plant is a couple of years old and in a large container against a sheltered semi-shaded wall. I suspect that either it is too wet, or that I have added too much acidifier, but really have no idea!

Re: Lonicera x purpusii with wilting new growth

Reply from Kathy C

Hi, Jools,
Lonicera x purpusii will grow in acid, neutral or alkaline soil but it isn't an acid-loving plant so I would avoid adding acidifier in the future. As far as being too wet, does the container have adequate drainage? When you say it is too wet, is this from too much rain in your area or too much water from you? If you are watering it, wait until the soil surface is dry before watering again. How long has it been in the container? Could be that it needs repotting or root pruning. How often does it get a feed? Plants in containers need fertiliser more often than those in the ground. Any chance you could post a photo?
Kathy C

Re: Re: Lonicera x purpusii with wilting new growth

Reply from Jools McCarthy

Hi Kathy,
Thanks for your reply. I had read somewhere online that this species is acid-loving, I'll avoid that now, thanks. The container may well not have adequate drainage. I haven't watered it yet this year, we've had little rainfall and the soil doesn't feel waterlogged, but it is very moist. I have attached a few pics of the plant and it's container. It's been in this container a couple of years, the container is about 18" high by 12" square, but I don't think it needs repotting yet. It hasn't been fed since last year. The new growth was looking very healthy, but now all of the new shoots are wilting as in the pictures. Any suggestions most welcome!
Cheers,
Jools