Day 29 · Nature

Start a compost heap

Put today's peelings, tea leaves and a handful of torn cardboard in a corner of the garden instead of the bin.

A compost heap is the simplest way to watch the world's oldest trick: things that were alive becoming the soil that makes new life. No kit required. A corner, a bin if you like, and a rough mix of green (peelings, grass, coffee grounds) and brown (cardboard, dry leaves, twigs). Turn it when you remember. In a few months the bottom is dark, crumbly and sweet-smelling, and your beds get fed for free. No garden? Many councils collect food waste, and a neighbour's heap may take yours.