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.
Tag Archives: Speaker
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.
Susan Masuo | June Speaker
Have you ever wondered what it is like to do botanical field work? How about field work in places where you are pretty sure no one who knew the plants has ever been before?
Tristan J. Davis | April Speaker
Have you ever wondered what it is like to do botanical field work? How about field work in places where you are pretty sure no one who knew the plants has ever been before?
February 2025 Mini Show
Cactus: Rebutia, Sulco, and Weingartia
Succulent: Rosette (smaller than 10’ in diameter)
Rebutia by Tom Glavich
Peter Breslin | February 14th Speaker
The Gates Meeting on February 14th at 7pm PST will feature a talk by Peter Breslin, PhD, on the future of the giant saguaro. He will discuss recent studies highlighting the effects of heat and drought stress on saguaros, including increased mortality and vulnerability, alongside his extensive experience in cactus research.
January Mini Show
Mammillarias are easy-to-grow succulents that thrive in sunny, hot climates, although some can be sensitive to temperature extremes. Aeoniums, Sempervivums, and Sedums have diverse origins and growth conditions. While Mammillarias bloom year-round, Sempervivums and Aeoniums need careful attention to avoid pests and stress from heat, showcasing unique beauty with their flowers and foliage.
January Speaker | Kelly Griffin
Kelly’s passion for succulents has led him to become a prominent hybridizer and propagator, creating over 100 unique varieties. As a dedicated member of the San Diego Cactus and Succulent Society, he holds leadership roles and has co-authored a book on Dudleyas. He will present his latest adventures in Australia at the Gates meeting on January 10th.
Gates Cactus and Succulent Society 