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.
Tag Archives: Speaker
Al Klein | November Meeting Speaker
On November 14th at 7pm PST, join Al Klein at the Redlands Church of the Nazarene for a program on growing Euphorbia plants. Learn about their diverse species, care requirements, and unique characteristics. Al brings a wealth of horticultural experience, having dedicated years to the cultivation of exotic plants.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 