There are myriad things you can toss into a compost bin, like vegetable trimmings, eggshells and even almost all nutshells. One big exception in the nutshell category: walnut shells. Turns out walnut shells can be lethal and toxic to plants because they contain high concentrations of juglone, a compound produced by some plants to stunt the growth of other plants. Juglone is so effective as a plant toxin, it is sometimes used as an herbicide. If you toss walnut shells into your compost and use the finished compost in your garden, you could inadvertently be killing your crop.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

Pick one day a week to go completely unplugged, free of any digital devices. Years of studies have shown that being disconnected from your phone and computer screens is beneficial for overall well-being and happiness, but recent findings indicate that it also may help you sleep better. According to a study by the National Academy of Sciences, spending time on your phone prior to bedtime can delay melatonin release, which causes you to take longer to fall asleep. It's best to leave phones off, and include e-readers as well, since they also emit the "blue light" from screens that affects your brain.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

One popular activity during the summer months is camping, but according to the Sierra Club, you should do one thing to minimize your impact when you're in the woods: Look for well-established campsites that have durable surfaces like gravel or rock slabs to pitch your tent. Avoid the Instagram-worthy areas like meadows or along rivers and lakes. While it may look idyllic, these areas tend to be fragile ecological sites that can be easily damaged or ruined.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION