When should you test soil after incorporating compost?

Testing soil after incorporating compost is most effective when done after a waiting period of at least one week. This allows time for the compost to begin breaking down and interacting with the soil, which can result in changes to the soil's chemical and physical properties. Immediate testing would not provide an accurate representation of the soil condition because the compost's effects would not yet be fully integrated or reflected in the soil composition.

During the first construction phase, soil characteristics may still be in flux due to ongoing construction activity, which can lead to variability in test results. Testing just after mixing does not account for the time it takes for the compost to decompose and engage with the existing soil structure and nutrients effectively.

While some may argue that testing might not be necessary after incorporation, this approach overlooks the benefits of understanding how the compost has influenced the soil, particularly in terms of nutrient availability and soil health.

Therefore, waiting at least a week provides a more accurate opportunity to assess how the compost has optimized the soil for future planting or other uses by allowing for adequate microbial activity and nutrient transformation to occur.