This month’s mini-show focuses on miniature plants rather than a specific genus or family. Eligible plants should generally be naturally small and grown in pots no larger than three inches, though juvenile forms are permitted within reason. Miniatures differ from dwarf or artificially dwarfed plants. Members must be current on dues and confirm eligibility with Phuc before submitting entries.
Tag Archives: nature
November 2026 Speaker | Paul Sternberg
Paul Sternberg will speak November 13 at 7 p.m. at Redlands Church of the Nazarene about his lifelong passion for succulents and cycads. A geologist and soil scientist, he co-founded Living Cycads Nursery with his wife, Karen, in the 1990s. Their work emphasizes conservation, habitat-inspired cultivation, and water-wise plants suited to Southern California.
November 2026 President’s Message
Gates CSS will meet Friday, November 13, at 6 PM. Members will vote on two Board director positions, with nominations and write-ins accepted; nominees must be present. The meeting will organize the December holiday potluck, including side-dish and dessert sign-ups. It is also the final monthly mini show competition before December’s winner announcements.
October 2026 Mini Show
The content discusses two genera of plants: Ariocarpus and Kalanchoe. Ariocarpus, a popular cactus genus, is easy to cultivate and has cultural significance among Native American tribes. Kalanchoe, known for its hardiness and vibrant blooms, is widely cultivated as a winter houseplant. Both genera offer various species and cultivars for enthusiasts.
October 2026 Speaker | Elias Aparicio
Elias Aparicio, a Southern California geologist and enthusiastic cactus collector, will present a talk on seed propagation for cacti and succulents on October 9th at Redlands Church of the Nazarene. His program will demonstrate techniques for growing plants from seed, offering hobbyists a cost-effective entry into cultivation and hybridization.
October 2026 President’s Message
As Halloween approaches, members are reminded to adjust watering for their plants. Two Board positions are up for reelection; interested candidates should contact a Board member. For the October minishow, participants can enter both living and “Best Dead Plant” categories. The event is on Friday, October 9th, at 6 PM.
September 2026 Mini Show
Eriosyce is a genus of colorful, small cacti native to Chile and surrounding areas, recently reclassified from multiple genera due to extensive research. Aizoaceae, or Mesembs, is a large family of succulent plants primarily from South Africa, praised for their resilience and diversity, but with specific care needs regarding watering.
September 2026 President’s Message
As summer transitions to early fall, plant shows and sales in Southern California are ending. The 43rd annual Succulent Symposium at the Huntington is approaching, featuring speaker Dylan Zoller. Attendees are encouraged to register and participate in exploring cacti and succulent conservation and education. Event details will be shared in the newsletter.
July 2026 Mini Show
Hybrids arise from crossbreeding different species, while cultivars are distinct varieties propagated for unique traits. Membership dues are required for participation in the July mini-show.
July 2026 President’s Message
Greetings Gates!
I hope you are all having an amazing summer! As hot days become more frequent and the abundant sunshine pours over our gardens, we see an increase in blooms (and growth) as our collections are really starting to pop off! I invite you to take advantage of those gorgeous moments and take pictures. We are always looking to add member content to our website, newsletter, and social media.
