Benjamin Whitacre Title: Gardening Writer Education: The College of William & Mary, Harvard University Location: Central Virginia Expertise: Roses, history of plants, botany, wildlife (attracting or keeping out) Benjamin Whitacre is a gardener and writer who enjoys exploring all aspects of the garden world, from creating DIY projects like building a better deer fence to breaking down the ecological value of an art collection like the Glass Flowers or explaining the science behind flower scents or the history of roses. He obsesses over the research process and final fact checking behind every piece, experimenting, looking for uncited archival material, and reaching out to experts around the world.Highlights* Nearly a decade of experience as a garden writer and presenter* Contributor to national garden magazines, including the American Horticultural Society's The American Gardener and Mother Earth News* Contributor to niche horticultural publications like the Arnold Arboretum's Arnoldia and the newsletter of the Heritage Rose Foundation* Former professional gardener Education Ben graduated from The College of William & Mary. The elaborate formal gardens and rustic displays at next-door Colonial Williamsburg were the backdrop to his study of Greek and Latin bucolic poems and farm manuals. As a gardener, he was influenced by the terraced formal gardens and winter greenery.Ben completed graduate studies in plant biology, education, and writing at Harvard University. His favorite project during graduate school was a year-long investigation into the history of roses using uncited archival material from Harvard and the UK. His second favorite was a garden curriculum and design for an interactive garden model. About Better Homes & Gardens Better Homes & Gardens, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, is the only iconic home brand with a 100+ year history of providing trustworthy and achievable ideas for all doers and home-enthusiasts. We are the go-to resource for fresh takes on home, food, and gardening—inspiring people to bring their dreams to life at home on special occasions and every day. BHG reaches 45 million readers each month. Learn more about us and our editorial process.