I only gave it a 3 star rating because I have nothing to compare it to. This is only my 3rd attempt at gardening so my opinion basis is limited. Was it great? It didn't kill anything for starters. So I win. I split the 12lb. bag between four 5gal. fabric pots after about 5-6 weeks when the initial soil has settled some. It has an unusual aroma I haven't smelled since I was a kid but, my dog likes it. The plants aren't finished yet so I can't say the dressing will be a benefit to the end but the new growth it inspired short term at least was, well, inspirational! Thank You. I also cannot answer the questions below. Appearance? Moisture? Consistency? Brown/damp/mushy. I don't know how that fits with "Poor to Excellant" as choices.