Juan D. Rivera started learning everything he could about plants, farming, livestock, and ecosystems at a young age. Since then, he’s earned a Master’s degree in wildlife biology (Universidad Iberoamericana, Ciudad de México) and a PhD in forestry (North Carolina State University), both with an emphasis on conservation farming and renewable technology. He has worked in planning crops for companies and workshops, as an educational consultant and writer.
Ah, the smell of fresh-cut grass! There’s nothing quite like it. Every time I fire up my weed eater, it feels like I’m taking charge of my garden, carving out neat lines, and giving my…
When I first got into gardening, I was eager to grow everything under the sun, and snapdragons—those vibrant, whimsical blooms that kids (and let’s face it, adults too) can’t resist making talk—were high on my…
As a gardening enthusiast, I’ve learned that achieving that manicured look in your yard requires the right tools and techniques. Enter the weed wacker, or string trimmer as some call it. While many people associate…
If you’re anything like me, you find a special kind of joy in coaxing a seed to life and watching it bloom. For clivias, this process feels like nurturing a little miracle. The vibrant flowers…
When I first started thinking about planting trees for shade, I had no idea what a difference it would make. Not only did my yard transform into a more peaceful retreat, but I also noticed…
When I first dove into the world of landscaping, I found myself knee-deep in ideas and inspiration. From raised flowerbeds to defining walkways, I quickly discovered a key tool that made transforming my yard a…
Ah, the lawn—a cornerstone of many homes, and for some, a matter of personal pride. I’ve been in the trenches (literally) of lawn care, trying to get that picture-perfect, lush green carpet in my yard….
You’ve probably got your trusty lawnmower and maybe even a weed eater for good measure. But have you ever heard of a scarifier? No, it’s not something out of a horror movie. It’s actually a…
Blueberries make your body strong and healthy, according to my 7-year-old! Blueberry fruits, in addition to being delicious on their own, are high in antioxidants and excellent at removing free radicals from your body. Blueberries…