Growing Wise offers applications of specifically formulated compost,* as well as liquid extracts and teas derived from it, to introduce the microbes that are happy to do the work we need done: directing the fungi to bacteria ratio to the target range for our crops and/or plant communities all the while building soil structure necessary for long term health. Additionally, the aerobic thermophilic process of composting neutralizes pathogens and weed seeds. These amendments are lab tested throughout the creation process and right before application to ensure the desired microbes are present. Applications are applied when the circumstances are favorable for survival of the microbes.  Compost can be directly applied to inoculate smaller areas, especially beneficial when organic matter (food and habitat for microbes) is low. It is more cost effective to use compost extracts, which is water with microbes in it extracted from compost, to inoculate greater acreage. Compost teas, more suited to direct foliar application, are extracts that have been brewed with microbial food so that the microorganisms are more active and stick to surfaces upon application.