Great question,

I pile mine up at the end of the season for later use in other beds, topping off containers throughout the year, planters, filling low spots in the yard etc.

I try to order fresh compost every spring.

There are also many different companies with their own definition of compost. 

Bottom line, make sure it breathes and drains, while also holding moisture, and that roots can shoot through it easily. 

The compost that I order also has some sandy loam mixed in.

So think, the stuff just under the mulch layer of a large tree in the forest. 

Not just organic matter. Sand particles, a little silt, clay even. 

You can't really make out what any of the organic particles are anymore.

Luckily there's a supplier local to me that delivers it by the cubic yard.

You just gotta search your area and check marketplace.

I used to go clean out nearby livestock stables, fill my truck, mix it all with grass clippings and leaves from my yard. 

Sure is easier just to have it delivered. 

There's always a use for good compost around here! 

Thanks for reaching out,

Rich