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.
The first time I planted an Oakleaf Hydrangea, I was struck by how different it felt compared to the classic mophead varieties most of us know. Its large, oak-shaped leaves turned fiery shades of red…
The Fort McNair Red Horse Chestnut is one of those trees that stops people in their tracks. The first time I saw its towering clusters of rosy-red flowers, I had to walk closer just to…
The Redpointe Red Maple has a way of stealing the spotlight in any yard. The first time I planted one, I couldn’t get over how quickly it grew into a strong, upright tree with perfectly…
The first time I saw a Stromanthe Triostar, I stopped in my tracks. Its leaves looked hand-painted, with shades of pink, cream, and green blending together like a piece of living art. Its leaves appeared…
Weaning is one of the biggest milestones in a young goat’s life—and for their keeper, too. Whether you’re raising dairy goats or meat breeds, understanding when to wean goats, anticipating their behaviors, and optimizing the…
Chickens and reptiles share some intriguing traits. However, this doesn’t mean they are both cold-blooded. Like snakes, lizards, and turtles, they do lay eggs, but there are many differences between the two. Do chickens have…
Getting your first turkey—whether it’s a fluffy chick or a full-grown adult—is an experience filled with excitement. At first glance, their size can be surprising, especially if you’re used to keeping chickens. Yet beyond their…
The Waterperry Blue Veronica, also called Veronica X ‘Waterperry Blue’ or Speedwell ‘Waterperry Blue’, is a popular perennial plant. Gardeners around the world appreciate this plant for its charm. This perennial is known for being…
The Windmill Palm, or Trachycarpus fortunei, is popular among gardeners. It’s also called the Chinese Windmill Palm, Chusan Palm, Hemp Palm, and Nepalese Fan Palm. Best known for its low maintenance and moderate growth, this…