Kiwi dropping old leaves and new ones growing

Earlier this summer I noticed my Fuzzy Kiwi leaves turning brown.  I had made raised mounds in the spring out of  dirt, sand and compost.

Using an idea I got from Dr. Redhawk (on how to grow cuttings), about a month ago I added some vermiculite, sand and compost on top of these kiwi mounds.

I then added wood chips to the top. This was so the mound would not get too wet or too dry.  So my thinking went.

I also followed the guidance from the University that developed these golden kiwi by elevating the drip irrigation lines to 4 feet and dropped down 1/4 inch lines with some adjustable sprayer heads that fit 1/4 inch lines (they use drip) so they water near the base of the kiwi.  

Now all the old leaves that had started to turn brown before I did this have dropped but a bunch of new growth has started.  I was expecting the old leaves to recover but they did not.  

I am confused.  Too much water? Too little water? Too much heat from the sun?  Circle of life???

found this info:

edges of kiwi leaves turn brown, check the planting location
This condition is known as leaf scorch. It can also be caused by too little irrigation during drought conditions

too little water can cause the leaves to drop off the vine, and even result in total defoliation.

leaves turning yellow, it could be a nitrogen deficiency

circle of life- leaves turn brown and yellow just before they fall in winter.