Compost is decaying organic matter. A keyword we want to talk about is decaying. Microbes are not only desired for healthy plant growth, they are required. They are also required in the process of decaying compost. When you add compost to the soil, microbes that started the decaying process join with microbes that are in the soil and continue decaying the organic matter. However this can take away from the interaction microbes have with the plant to almost completely focus on breaking down the organic matter. This impacts healthy plant growth. The question is not whether or not we should add compost or even organic residue that has not yet begun the process of decaying, but rather when we should add it. Typically you’ll want to add your compost immediately after your harvest to allow the microbes to focus on the decay process. In climates that experience changes in season, fall is preferred so the soil and the microbes are ready for spring planting. SoilEnliven will help accelerate the process of compost decay in the soil so that nutrients are stored in the soil before spring growth occurs and the microbes are free to assist in other areas of healthy plant growth.