How many times a year do you apply compost to your tropical fruit trees? Twice a year, spring/fall or every time you feed fertilizer then you add compost as well?
When I have compost I use it - anytime. Top dressing with compost is always appropriate, it leaches nutrients so slowly it will not burn your plants and it will encourage the good soil organisms.
Minds are like parachutes; they work better when they are open.