Andrew Hankey, a seasoned horticulturist with 30 years of experience, has greatly influenced the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden through various innovative projects. He specializes in threatened plant conservation, especially the critically endangered Albertina Sisulu Orchid, and is advancing his knowledge in the Hyacinthaceae genera while engaging in extensive botanical research in southern Africa.
Category Archives: Speakers
Jorge Ochoa | August Meeting Speaker
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.
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.
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?
Tristan J. Davis | April 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?
Peter Breslin | February 14th Speaker
The Gates Meeting on February 14th at 7pm PST will feature a talk by Peter Breslin, PhD, on the future of the giant saguaro. He will discuss recent studies highlighting the effects of heat and drought stress on saguaros, including increased mortality and vulnerability, alongside his extensive experience in cactus research.
January Speaker | Kelly Griffin
Kelly’s passion for succulents has led him to become a prominent hybridizer and propagator, creating over 100 unique varieties. As a dedicated member of the San Diego Cactus and Succulent Society, he holds leadership roles and has co-authored a book on Dudleyas. He will present his latest adventures in Australia at the Gates meeting on January 10th.
November Speakers | Elias Aparicio, Rene Hernandez, Phuc Huynh
On November 8th at 7pm PST, the Redlands Church of the Nazarene will host a presentation on growing succulents from seeds and propagation. The event will cover basic information, offer demonstrations for seed sowing and cuttings, and encourage both novices and seasoned growers to expand their plant collections effectively.
October Speaker | Tom Glavich
The presentation by Tom Glavich will focus on flowering plants from South Africa’s Winter, covering their cultivation and propagation. Glavich is an experienced grower affiliated with several botanical societies.
September Speaker | Gunner Eisel
Elias Aparicio, a geologist and member of Gates Cactus and Succulent Society, will be the guest speaker at the club meeting. He will share insights on grafting cactus and succulent plants, highlighting its practical benefits and creative potential. With over 14 years of experience, Elias advocates for grafting as a valuable tool for growers at all levels.
