With over 60 years of experience in cactus and succulent cultivation, Chris Allen’s passion for plants began in grade school with a small succulent dish garden. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Plant Science from Penn State University, and spent 36 years as an agriscience educator, teaching plant science. For more than 30 years, Chris has been an active and dedicated member of the Connecticut Cactus and Succulent Society, serving multiple terms as President and receiving numerous awards for his expertly cultivated plants. His impressive collection thrives in a 28x24-foot greenhouse at his home in Trumbull, CT, where his innovative methods for growing succulents continue to inspire and flourish.

Art Scarpa, founder of the Cactus & Succulent Society of Massachusetts, has been passionate about growing indoor plants since the age of eight. He currently serves as a Director of the Cactus & Succulent Society of America and has extensive experience as a judge at prominent flower shows, including the New England Flower Show in Boston, the Newport Flower Show, and the Philadelphia Flower Show. For over 30 years, Art has shared his extensive knowledge with plant clubs across the Northeast, inspiring and educating fellow enthusiasts with his expertise.

Matt has been passionate about growing Lithops, Conophytum, and other living stones since elementary school. His deep interest in these unique plants led him to travel to South Africa to study them in their native habitat. Currently, he serves as the Collections Scientist at the UConn Botanical Conservatory, where he continues to expand his knowledge and expertise.

Jack has been passionate about growing plants since childhood. A founding member of the Connecticut Cactus and Succulent Society (CCSS), he brings years of hands-on experience to his cultivation practices. His greenhouse is home to thousands of tiny succulents and cacti, which he grows to closely resemble their native habitats, rather than the typical conditions of the Northeast U.S. In addition to his work with cacti and succulents, Jack maintains a diverse landscape featuring both native and ornamental trees and shrubs.