64 yr old newby would like some help

Why are we doing this?

ST = sensors.getTempC(Soil_Temp);

We have already read the sensors.

sensors.requestTemperaturesByAddress(Soil_Temp); // get temps so we can control relays //1.03

Couldn't the code be?

if (Soil_Temp <= Soil_temp_on)

The reason for the question is that the senor reading and reaction is right looking at the Soil_Temp in the serial monitor.