Do you compress the potting soil?

[QuailMan6666]

When planting plants in a pot, are you supposed to firmly compress the soil around the stem? Or do you keep the soil loose?

 

[Sally PB]

I compress it... gently. I want it firm enough to help stabilize the stem/plant. Some plants, like tomatoes, will root along the stem. I want the soil in good contact, but I don't push on the soil enough to damage the stem. Stems can be a bit delicate when plants are in the seedling stage.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Shimmy the soil down.

 

[Loving my girls]

Yep, gentle taps then water, till it comes out the bottom of the pot. Then let it stand to drain before putting your saucer underneath.
Never let its feet get wet.