Ian Thwaites, British Cactus Succulent Society

Ian Thwaites is passionate about the Cacti and Succulents and he's a stalwart of The British Cactus an Succulent Society.

Honestly, I didn't even know this plant society existed until leaving the Garden Media Guild awards 2017. There was a copy of their magazine in my bag, which is crazy considering I know Ian as long as I'm a member of the GMG.

That, led me to put out a question ( see below) on plant and garden society's, perceptions held, why some plant society's fail and, equally succeed. The response was surprisng, in how passionately people of all ages and genres responded. I felt I should do something or at least ask those questions.

And so on this episode Peter Donegan and fellow GMG member, friend and photographer Ian chat all of those things and all of those why questions that bounce around in Peter's head.

The Sodshow is available every Friday in Spotify, all good podcast stores and The Sodshow website.

And, if you have a mo, a rate / review in iTunes would be just fan-tastic. Much thanks for listening Xx

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Ian Thwaites:

Cacti have been a part of my life for the past 40 years and through which I have made some wonderful friendships, many of whom I now regard as family. I have travelled extensively looking at and studying succulent plants in their natural environment.  I have been fortunate to have travelled with wonderful friends and have been present when plants new to science have been discovered.  Professionally I am an award-winning freelance professional plant and garden photographer supplying images to the editorial and advertising market across the world. I am a member of the Professional Garden Photographers Association and a committee member of the Garden Media Guild.

The British Cactus and Succulent Society:

The BCSS should be the first stop for anyone interested in Cacti and Succulents.  It doesn’t matter if you have a few plants on a windowsill or a greenhouse full there is always something that will interest plant enthusiasts.  The society (registered Charity No. 290786) is structured to serve its members and a warm welcome is assured should you visit any event.

With over 80 branches throughout the UK meeting monthly you will have the opportunity to meet other enthusiasts and to learn more about growing these amazing plants. CactusWorld, the Society’s beautifully illustrated quarterly magazine is just one of the many benefits that members receive. It contains articles about new species, plants in the wild, cultivation techniques and, of course, what the Society’s many branches and members are up to.  The society also publishes books, more technical journals and many other useful reading items.  An annual seedless is really not to be missed.  Many branches hold annual shows where you get the opportunity to see some wonderful specimens and there are usually plant sales by members and often specialist nurseries.

This website offers a wealth of information about the Society – including how to join – and is your gateway to the wonderful world of cacti and other succulents.

facebook: The British Cactus and Succulent Society

web: www.bcss.org.uk

twitter: CactusSucculent