Do you need to amend the soil when planting Conifers and Japanese maples?

Yes, it is our recommendation to either amend the soil in the hole you dig or to start using raised beds. Georgia clay soil has claimed many a plant and tree, regardless of genus and species.  In some areas of our Metro area, even if you dig a hole and add amendments, you will have a clay cauldron that will not drain.  Thus, after a rain you will have a soupy organic mess that will drown the roots of the plant. Use soil conditioner (milled pine bark and sphagnum moss) and top soil , while mixing in the dirt from your garden, to help create a raised bed.  Raising the bed helps to facilitate good drainage and helps to create a finshed look.