The content discusses the cultivation and characteristics of Mammillaria cacti and Aloe succulents. Mammillaria display wide variability in shape and growth, thriving with proper care. Aloe, particularly Aloe vera, is popular for its medicinal uses and adaptability. Membership dues are required for participation in the monthly mini-show featuring these plants.
Tag Archives: nature
Gunnar Eisel | January Meeting Speaker
Join us on January 9th at 7pm PST at Redlands Church of the Nazarene for “The Succulent Underground: The Hidden Intelligence and Function of Roots.” Speaker Gunnar Eisel will explore root physiology, pruning benefits, and how roots sense gravity. Eisel is an experienced succulent collector and industry leader.
January 2026 President’s Message
Welcome to 2026! Thank you all for an amazing 2025. In 2026, leadership changes include Nicole Oceguera as Vice President/Secretary and Lyndsee Cordes as a new Board Member. Phuc Huynh shifts to Mini-Show Chair/Judge. The December potluck was a success, and Mini-Show winners were announced. Members are urged to ensure well-draining soil for their plants this winter.
December 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.
November 2025 Mini Show
The post discusses two plant genera: Schlumbergera, known as holiday cacti, and Senecio, a diverse succulent genus. Schlumbergera thrives in indirect light, blooms during winter, and has vibrant, showy flowers, while Senecio includes various easy-to-grow species, boasting unique appearances and adaptability, making them excellent indoor plants. Membership dues are required for competition eligibility.
November 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.
October 2025 Mini Show
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.
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.
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.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 