Fertile black soil makes it possible to grow delicious vegetables in a self-sustaining system, eliminating the need for peat and reducing environmental impact. This modern method of gardening is inspired by the ancient Terra preta do Índio from the South American rainforest region. Andrea Preissler-Abou El Fadil describes what can be achieved with self-composted black soil substrate. In small spaces, including pallet gardens and balcony boxes, vegetables, herbs, and flowers thrive healthily and abundantly. Kitchen waste is immediately returned to the material cycle. Biochar, which is mixed into the compost soil, stores CO2, nutrients, and water – beneficial for the climate as well as for nutrient-poor soils and dry summers. With the detailed instructions from the gardening expert, creating soil in the Terra Preta style becomes easy. Practical examples from small and urban gardeners are included.