Replenishing soil

Hi all, I am having a row of conifers removed soon. Down to the trunks. As far as I'm aware they have been there 10 years plus. They are around 10ft high. Sadly they haven't been looked after by previous owners and have grown wonky and have big gaps in them so are pretty unsightly. They have drained most of the goodness from the soil. Its like dust and not much will grow near them. I would like to replenish the soil once they are removed. What would be best to do this with. Thanks in advance.

 

I would get a load of well rotted manure and dig that in. Are you having the stumps removed?

 

Hi @NigelJ that sounds manageable. No they are leaving the stumps. To be honest they did suggest removing them but it was quite a bit more expensive. He did say they won't grow back from the stumps? What are your thoughts? Thanks for replying

 

Trouble is the roots will be in the way of any digging.
Could be a few years before they rot away.

 

Hi @pete hmm I see what you mean. I think I got a little excited at the thought of just getting the conifers away I'm going to be stuck for a while before I can put anything there aren't I

 

Yeah kind of, conifers tend to be surface rooting, its not impossible but would be hard work breaking up the root areas.
The stumps are best removed if possible, and taking as much root as possible with them.

 

@pete... thanks, I appreciate your advice. I'm going to hold of having them taken out for now. Your right, I think I'll have them all removed, roots and all. I'll kick myself after a while that I can't put anything in there.

 

So the conifers have gone stumps and all.

So back to replenishing the soil that's left in the border. I've bought 3 bags of well rotted manure to put in. During a light hearted chat the lady in the garden centre said after putting the manure in wait a while as it can burn the roots on any plants I put in? what do you think. I'm in no rush but like an idea of how long to wait if that's the best thing to do.