On August 8th at 7pm PST, Jorge Ochoa, an Associate Professor of Horticulture at Long Beach City College, will speak at Redlands Church of the Nazarene. He advocates for urban biodiversity, enhances green spaces, organizes wildflower hikes, and promotes sustainable gardening and plant conservation in Southern California.
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August 2025 President’s Message
Jeffrey Loew greets the Gates community, wishing everyone a wonderful summer as SoCal’s heat returns. He reminds members to water diligently during hot days and announces that Jorge Ochoa will speak on edible succulent landscaping in August.
July 2025 Mini Show
Two genera of plants: Dorstenia and Ficus, both part of the Moraceae family. Dorstenia thrives in tropical conditions and includes several unique species with distinct characteristics and pollination methods. Ficus, easier to cultivate, features various species suited for pot growth and bonsai styling, with notable propagation techniques. Membership requirements for a monthly competition are also mentioned.
Karen Ostler | July Meeting Speaker
The Gates October Meeting will feature Karen Ostler discussing the genus Ferocactus on July 11th at 7pm PST at Redlands Church of the Nazarene in California. Ostler, an experienced cactus grower with over 40 years of involvement in the cactus community, primarily focuses on various types of cacti since relocating to the high desert.
July 2025 President’s Message
In a summer greeting, the Board encourages members to vend free at monthly meetings, reminding them of first-come, first-serve table availability for cacti and related items. Members are invited to John Reynolds’ home on July 12, 2025, for Ann’s propagation collection. Karen Ostler will speak on Ferocactus in July.
June 2025 Mini Show
Echinopsis is a diverse genus of cacti endemic to South America, recognized for its dramatic flowers and varying sizes, with 128 species. Stem succulent Euphorbias, resembling cacti, are easy to cultivate but require caution due to their irritant latex. Both groups thrive in well-drained conditions and benefit from proper care for successful growth.
Susan Masuo | June Speaker
Have you ever wondered what it is like to do botanical field work? How about field work in places where you are pretty sure no one who knew the plants has ever been before?
June 2025 President’s Message
This year’s annual show and sale was a remarkable success, achieving record sales and attracting numerous new member sign-ups. With exceptional volunteer efforts, a variety of plant exhibitors showcased stunning cacti and succulents. Thanks were extended to all contributors, and upcoming events were highlighted, including a talk by Sandy Masuo.
May 2025 President’s Message
Our Show and Sale is almost upon us! Only a few more sleeps until we can give the city of Redlands a real treat!
April 2025 President’s Message
This April meeting is our last general meeting prior to our May show and sale.
Remember, we are not having a May meeting as that Friday evening the meeting hall will be arranged for the show portion.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 