Okay, I have chosen a good spot for the garden and I have come to realize 1 problem, the soil is very acidic in the area from rotting plant matter ect. I plan to amend the soil with sand, perlite/vermiculite, compost, pine wood chips or bark, and fired clay pellets for moisture. (any advice of the mix is welcome!) So, how would I stop or prevent the acid level from reaching a level C. reginae won't tolerate? Also, I know my mix isn't very good at retaining water, is there any good ways to help keep it moist? Thanks for the advice. I want to get the spot ready before winter. (Also will help keeping my parents from changing their mind.)

How about using mulch to keep the moisture in?

isnt pine straw used as mulch for cyps or recommended?

Do you know the soil pH? That could help us determine if your soil acidity is too low. Usually you can add buffers like oyster shells or baking soda to the soil in order to raise pH.