The post discusses columnar cacti and miniature agaves, highlighting their unique characteristics and growth requirements. Columnar cacti, known for their upright form, vary in size and growth rates, while miniature agaves showcase a rosette shape with distinctive terminal spines. Both types have specific care needs and offer impressive landscape potential.
Tag Archives: nature
Tim McCoy | February Meeting Speaker
On February 13th at 7pm PST, Tom McCoy will speak at the Redlands Church of the Nazarene about the native aloes of Saudi Arabia. With 35 years of research, he has discovered new species and authored significant publications, including “The Aloes of Arabia.” McCoy is a respected botanist and aviculturist.
February 2026 President’s Message
Jeffrey Loew, the president, shares greetings and discusses the mild winter in Southern California, inviting members to showcase their winter-growing plants for the newsletter. He highlights the upcoming cactus and succulent show season, reminds members about their 2026 membership renewals, and announces Tom McCoy as the speaker for the February meeting.
January 2026 Mini Show
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.
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.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 