From decomposition, life begins. In a small bin that transforms from a hodgepodge trash pile into a life-giving hummus, you can create your own primordial soup of sorts—A window into a process similar to the genesis of all life as we know it.

Here are the steps for making your own simple compost pile using basic kitchen and garden waste:

1. Pick a container. Ideally, your bin should have holes in the bottom and sides to allow for proper air circulation. Plastic or metal garbage cans with lids are good choices. Just be sure to drill holes in them. If you prefer to make a compost pile in your backyard or garden, you can enclose it with wire mesh or build a wooden or brick surround.
2. Layer your composting ingredients as such:
   [li]“Browns”--Dry leaves, newspaper, grass clippings
   • “Greens”--Nitrogen-containing compounds, organic matter from your kitchen such as veggie and food scraps and coffee grounds
   • Water: Medium amount.
   The pile should be as wet as a damp sponge.[/li]
3. Repeat the layers as if making lasagna.
4. Mix the pile once each week.

A healthy compost pile should not have an unpleasant smell. If you sense an ammonia-like odor, try
reducing the amount of “Greens” you’re adding. Expect to see the transformed hummus in 6 months to 1 year. Be at peace with this patient process (After all, our own genetic material took millions of years to form!)