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.
Every time spring rolls around, I can’t wait to get my hands dirty in the garden. One of my favorite crops to grow? Bush beans. They’re reliable, quick to mature, and produce pods faster than…
When I think of summer, my mind instantly fills with images of fresh, juicy watermelon slices, their sweetness perfectly capturing the essence of sunny days and picnics. It’s a fruit that seems to embody all…
Ah, pepper seeds. I still remember the first time I tried growing them. I was excited, imagining my future self plucking fresh, spicy peppers from my backyard garden. But before I even got to that…
When it comes to growing spinach, I’ve often found myself wondering whether it’s worth the extra effort to soak the seeds before planting. Spinach, that leafy green we all love to toss in salads or…
Growing an apricot tree has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my garden. The anticipation of those sweet, sun-ripened fruits kept me going through the growing season. I’ve spent countless hours tending to…
When I planted my first apricot tree, I was filled with excitement, but I quickly realized that location wasn’t just important—it was everything. Picking the right spot for an apricot tree can mean the difference…
As someone who cherishes their apricot trees like family, I’ve learned that their dormant period is far from a time to neglect them. It’s their rest phase, their winter retreat, but also the perfect opportunity…
As a gardener, you know that one of the best feelings is seeing your tomato plants flourish. But if you’re growing indeterminate tomatoes, you might be facing a tricky decision: Should you stake them or…
As any tomato grower will tell you, tomatoes have a life of their own. They stretch, bloom, and bear fruit with a rhythm and resilience that’s almost inspiring. One part of the plant that often…