Wow !!
Thanks to all who've responded to my newbie questions.
Not only have you solved my pending bonsai issues, you've helped salvage
my garden!!
Now, does anyone know anything about hot water heaters ???
Just kidding :-)

As Bart suggested, it is my intention to rent a rototiller and "soften"
the beds.
I then intended to remove about 1/3 of the existing soil (clay) and
replace it with twice as much organics.
That way I should end up with equal parts clay and organics. The results
(I'm hoping) will be raised beds.
Around the shrubs I intend on digging them up, digging a much bigger
hole (3 X larger??), and filling the hole with an organic/clay mixture.

The only problem I foresee is drainage.
However, puddles don't form now, so I imagine it must be running through
the existing clay substructure.

One remaining question ..... Calcium Sulfate ?????
I imagine I can pick this up at a nursery.
How much should I be looking for ???
Don't want to purchase it in 5 pound bags if the job needs 3 tons !!

Thanks to everyone for your help.
Looks like I've found a new group of friends.

Mark Hill - Harrisburg PA, Zone 6 (where it's currently 9 deg F)

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