Mature compost has a rich dark brown, almost black color.
Fully matured compost can be used any time in the spring, summer, or fall.
Even rich, good-quality loamy soil gets compacted over time and adding organic matter loosens up the soil.
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Clay soil with is dense soil particles sticks together, which leads to poor drainage and insufficient oxygen.
Adding organic matter to heavy clay soil loosens it up and improves aeration.
The nutrient content of compost, unlike commercial fertilizer, organic or other, is unpredictable.
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For Mulching
Compost is sometimes recommended as amulcharound plants but that only works to a limited extent.
However, your compost should still be covered.
Only leave your compost uncovered if you use it forgrowing crops, which thrive on a compost pile.
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Cornell University Cooperative Extension.
