The post discusses the unique genetic variations seen in cacti and succulents, including crested, monstrose, and variegated forms. Plants exhibiting these traits must have at least 30% deviation to qualify for a mini-show. These genetic anomalies, while often less hardy, are celebrated among enthusiasts for their fascinating diversity.
Tag Archives: garden
Jan Emming | October Meeting Speaker
Jan Emming, originally from the Netherlands and raised in Colorado, moved to Yucca, Arizona, in 1999 to create a dream garden on a 40-acre desert property. His program, “Building Forever,” discusses the challenges and successes of cultivating a diverse array of succulents and native desert plants in this unique ecosystem.
October 2025 President’s Message
Gates welcomes fall, enjoying cooler weather for gardening. The club participated in the Heritage Club Fair, expanding membership awareness of cacti. The recent Cook Off featured delicious entries and a successful barbecue at Judy Horne’s home. October’s meeting includes a talk by Jan Emming and a “dead plant” mini-show category.
September 2025 Mini Show
The Opuntiadeae family, including cacti like Opuntia, spans from Southern Argentina to Canada and is a common pest in various regions. Propagation is easier via cuttings than seeds. Additionally, Ficus species are also discussed, alongside the flowering genera Huernia and Stapelia, known for their unique pollination methods.
Andrew Hankey | September Meeting Speaker
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.
September 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.
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.
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.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 