Greetings Gates!
Welcome to the Springtime.. when April showers bring May succulent and cactus flowers!
One of my favorite times of the year is almost upon us… the Gates Annual Show and Sale! I highly encourage ALL members (new and seasoned) to participate in the Show (and of course spend lots of money taking home new plant children at the Sale). This is a great opportunity to not only showcase your amazing specimens, but also provide the public a chance to see many types of succulents and cacti that they might otherwise never come across. It always astounds me when my non-succulent friends think that the selection at the big box garden stores (and even local nurseries) is a true reflection of the beauty and diversity found in the world of cacti and succulents. Also, don’t be afraid to compete if you are a first-timer. That is why we have categories: Novice, Intermediate, and Advanced. Kim will expand on show and competition details during our meeting. So start potting (or repotting) now to prepare your entries.
We also have lots of opportunities for volunteering at this year’s Show and Sale. Please see our sign-up sheet during the meeting! Kim and Phuc will be providing updates and information for our 2024 Show and Sale. I hope you are all as excited as I am.
This month’s speaker is Manny Rivera. He will be presenting on his experience with cactus and succulent exhibiting as well as how to prep your specimens for show/ competition.
I hope to see you all Wednesday evening!
All my best,
Jeffrey Loew
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 