Typically, the late summer season in Southern California usually sees a few warm, muggy thunderstorms coming from the south and southeast. Some are monsoons. The hot, sticky, humid air mass leaves us wanting for the return of the dryer, hot weather. Or do we?
Now we can add another story to the list of unusual weather patterns for this year. I’m talking about a tropical storm which was a category four hurricane Hilary before it came ripping through Southern California and stretching as far north as the Bay Area and Nevada. Talking about going from a record-setting hot July to a two-day constant downpour of warm tropical thunderstorms. Making this even more unusual is that it’s been 84 years since the last hurricane-force storm visited California. I hope everyone is safe with no or minimal weather-related problems.
Now that we have had enough water for our succulents, please, nobody waters your plant for the next two to three weeks depending on how much soaking you received. So, while our plants dry out, we can all prepare for the Cactus Cook-Off/Summer BBQ extravaganza. There is still plenty of hot weather left until the fall. Concoct the special cactus dish that you have been waiting to share with everyone. That time is now here; more specifically, it will be on Saturday, September 9 at Judy Horne’s home. The address is 12212 Overcrest Drive in Yucaipa, CA 92399. Our BBQ potluck will start at 4 PM, but please come earlier to enjoy Judy’s magnificent succulent garden that’s been in the making for decades. The club will provide burgers, hot dogs, and drinks while everyone else please bring an appetizer or a dessert. I hear that there will be some free plant giveaways.
In the tradition of learning the practicalities of gardening and specifically for succulent plants, Ernesto Sandoval will be our guest speaker from Northern California. He will explain and teach the raw and bare truth about how plants grow.
His presentation is filled with facts and humor that will leave you wondering what “makes my plant happy.” Here’s where you can learn how to maximize your plant growth with some basic plant biology lessons.
In memorial, Linda Walsh passed away the morning of August 8, 2023, due to a long battle with some medical complications. She is survived by her two sons, who have both volunteered during our annual show and sale for the past several years. Linda was never shy to admit that she was a novice succulent enthusiast but her unwavering support and participation in so many club activities goes to show how much she has enjoyed our club and other horticultural organizations. We will miss you, Linda, and our prayers and thoughts will be with you Linda, and your family.
Sincerely, Phuc
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 