Soil sinking after watering

Hi folks, i have not been active for a while just have had a lot on the last while. anyway i have planted some stuff and after watering the soil has sunk 2.5 inches. i try not to compact the soil too much when planting i would gently push down on the soil. i know that this will always happen and that all it takes is just some topping up but i am interested in hearing any suggestions which works for you to either minimise or completely prevent this. i used to compact gently with my hand then tap the pots but i found sometimes this was too much.

 

First thought, The Early Bushman, is that you do not firm your soil enough when planting. Soil compaction is one thing but firming soil is important. As simple as this I think.
Soil level should not drop like that after watering.

What are you planting? Why do you feel "sometimes this was too much"?

When I plant anything I firm with my fists at the very least; trees and shrubs with my feet.

 

Soil will allways settle if moved, for me compacted soil means like concrete

 

Jiffy, not that firm

It does depend on the soil but soil sinking by 2.5 inches after watering does suggest it is not firm enough.