My japonica valley valentine is not happy!

When did you move it? And did you water it well and regularly after the move?

It is related to rhododendrons/azaleas at best it requires the some shade, moist, acidic, well-drained soil (may tolerate other soils if it must) I think moving it (unless dormant) may well be the trouble? Assess in the spring if new shoots them cut back to them then and top dress with ericas compost and for a year try to water with rain water .

Thank you both. Didn't expect replies so quickly...Guess I must have moved it a few months ago and I did water it, even though it was sad looking. We have this ghastly clay soil here in East Anglia which doesn't help. You can see obviously I need help as I shouldn't have moved it. Will take advice of drc726. Thank you both. And if it cheers up, will send you piccies!!

Hi Swampyq lots of plants do very well in clay including roses, just add some soil conditioner to new beds as you dig and lots of humas as you go. Dig big planting holes to. I mulch mine heavily twice a year too.

Swampyg it really wont like clay. If you want to grow successfully you need to dig a large hole put in a layer of 20mm gravel (or bigger) part fill with acidic/ericaceous compost then plant your japonica and fill up with more acidic/ericaceous compost. Water regularly with rain water not water from your tap.

Swampy I meant other plants like clay as think you will have guessed!

In fact clay has more neturants than ordernary soil, you need to unlock them with humes, roses and sweet peas do it for them selves and allways do better if there is plenty of clay in the soil'' and welcom, Swampyq

Thanks everyone. I must say this is a very helpful and friendly site for a first time user. I'm also going to be getting an allotment but on waiting list.
Best wishes to you all