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Irish Times
5 days ago
- General
- Irish Times
A quick and easy way to add contemporary elegance to your garden
Some plants have an uncanny ability to add contemporary elegance to a garden, magically leavening the visual weightiness of trees, shrubs and more traditional perennials with the airy grace of their growth habit and flowers. Umbellifers are without equal in this regard. Threaded through an otherwise conventional mixed border, or used in a gravel garden, or a display of summer pots, they quickly transform any outdoor space in a way that feels distinctly modern. Part of the reason for this is their umbel-shaped flowers, which are similar to those of some of our loveliest and best-known wildflowers, such as cow parsley, hedge parsley, alexanders, pignut and wild carrot. Each umbel – technically known as a 'compound inflorescence' – is a thing of precise geometric beauty made up of a series of umbellets that radiate out from its centre, with each umbellet typically comprising a number of tiny flowers. But it's not just their good looks that earns them a place in many gardens. Umbellifers' nectar and pollen-rich, umbrella-shaped, decorative blooms are also famously attractive to a diverse range of pollinating insects. Yet another part of their great charm is that long after they have faded, the handsome silhouettes of those distinctive flowers can continue to provide long-lasting interest right until the first harsh frosts, while their often tall, hollow, grooved stems offer a safe berth for beneficial garden insects to overwinter. READ MORE White coriander flowers. Photograph: Getty Ferula communis, the giant fennel. Photograph: Getty All are members of what was long known as the Umbelliferae plant family but is now classed as Apiaceae. This huge group includes well-known garden favourites such as fennel, dill, lovage, coriander, celery, culinary parsley, angelica, ammi, bupleurum, astrantia and orlaya, as well as other lesser-known but equally graceful umbelliferous species. Examples of the latter include the pink-flowering Pimpinella major 'Rosea'; Baltic parsley (Cenolophium denudatum); the towering, yellow-flowered giant fennel (Ferula communis); the stately Himalayan cow parsley (Selinum wallichianum); the statuesque, lime-flowered Peucedanum verticillare; and the lilac-pink flowering hairy chervil (Chaerophyllum hirsutum 'Roseum'). Astrantia japonica. Photograph: Getty Wild angelica. Photograph: Getty These plants, often used in naturalistic planting combinations, have become the hallmark of a now established style of gardening that's less strait-laced and more in tune with the planet. Some, it should be said, are easier to grow than others. For example, the exquisite Bupleurum longifolium 'Bronze Beauty', a sun-loving perennial prized for its intricately beautiful flowers that look as if they were dusted in powdered gold, is notoriously short-lived as well as challenging to raise from seed (the latter must be sown fresh and exposed to cold winter temperatures). Meanwhile, fashionable annual and biennial umbellifers such as Orlaya grandiflora and ornamental carrot (Daucus carota), loved equally by gardeners and florists, can frustratingly fall victim to carrot fly. Others, such as dill and common fennel, can become invasive when growing conditions are too much to their liking, self-seeding themselves around the place with abundance, or in the case of sweet cicely (Myrrhis odorata), also spreading via their very vigorous root systems. Another case in point is the famously persistent perennial weed known as ground elder (Aegopodium podagraria), originally introduced as a medicinal herb used to treat gout before its unwelcome ability to rapidly colonise large areas of ground was recognised. That said, there's no denying the graceful beauty of its pale umbelliferous flowers, while it's also quite delicious fried in butter and garlic. [ How to make the best of light and shade in your garden Opens in new window ] I should add another word of warning when it comes to this group of plants, which is to be ultra wary of those wild umbelliferous species that pose a risk to human health. Chief among them is giant hogweed, Heraclium mantegazzianum, a non-native perennial now naturalised through large parts of Ireland and found growing in damp ditches, woodland edges and along riversides. Originally introduced as a garden ornamental – a cautionary tale if ever there was one – it's what's known as a phytotoxic species, where a combination of exposure to bright sunlight and direct contact with its sap quickly results in very painful blistering and then scarring of the skin. While easy to identify at this time of year when its lofty flower stems can reach a height of 5m, that task is more challenging when it's in its earlier stages of growth, making accidental injury more of a risk. Others, such as hemlock (Conium maculatum), hemlock water-dropwort (Oenanthe crocata), fool's parsley (Aethusa cynapium) and lesser water parsnip (Berula erecta) are poisonous both to humans and animals (the Greek philosopher Socrates famously died of poisoning by drinking hemlock tea). Great care should be taken not to confuse them if foraging for other edible umbelliferous species such as alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum) and wild angelica (Angelic sylvestris). On the other hand, and as mentioned above, many of our kitchen garden favourites are also umbellifers. If you've ever let parsley, parsnip, coriander, celery or carrot go to seed rather than harvesting them, for example, then you've probably been both charmed and surprised by the beauty of their pollinator-friendly flowers, proof that they can be every bit as decorative and beneficial to nature as they are useful. This week in the garden Preserve the flavour of fresh garden-grown herbs for use later in the year by drying tied bunches in a cool, dry room, freezing the chopped leaves in ice cubes, or adding some sprigs of leaves to small, sealed bottles or jars of olive oil. The last of the summer bedding plants are often for sale at bargain prices in garden centres and supermarkets at this time of year. Most are tired and badly rootbound by now, while time is rapidly running out for them to make enough fresh growth to give impact. But if you can't resist the temptation, then give them a fighting chance by cutting back all faded flower stems, gently loosening their root-balls and thoroughly soaking the latter in a solution of liquid seaweed before planting them into weed-free, friable, fertile ground, or a container filled with a very good quality compost. Take precautions against slugs and snails. Dates for your diary A Fiesta of Dahlias June Blake's garden, Tinode, Blessington, Co Wicklow, every Saturday and Sunday in July from 2pm. A celebration of this remarkable genus of plants with free workshops, expert talks, plus tours of the garden. Carlow Garden Festival 2025 Saturday, July 26th to Sunday, August 3rd, with expert guest speakers including Financial Times gardening correspondent and author, Robin Lane Fox (Huntington Castle, August 2nd); author and head gardener of Kilmacurragh, Seamus O'Brien (Burtown House, July 30th); British garden designer Sarah Eberle (Borris House, July 31st); organic kitchen gardener Tanguy de Toulgoët (Shankill Castle, July 30th); and Peter O'Mahony in conversation with Adam Frost (Arboretum Garden Centre, Leighlinbridge, July 26th), booking essential. .
Business Wire
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
AXT, Inc. Announces a Preliminary Revenue Range for Second Quarter 2025
FREMONT, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--AXT, Inc. (NasdaqGS: AXTI), a leading manufacturer of compound semiconductor substrates, today announced a preliminary revenue range for its second quarter, ended June 30, 2025. AXT's full financial results for the second quarter of 2025 are scheduled to be announced on July 31, 2025. AXT expects preliminary revenue for the second quarter of 2025 to be in the range of $17.5 to $18 million, below the company's previously stated guidance of $20 million to $22 million provided on May 1, 2025. The preliminary revenue range for the second quarter of 2025 is primarily the result of slower than expected issuance of export control permits for the company's gallium arsenide products in Q2 and a weaker demand environment in China. 'Though we continue to feel confident about our participation in a number of exciting technology trends, the current geopolitical environment remains challenging across our business,' said Morris Young, chief executive officer. 'Further, the demand environment in China has been weaker than expected for our gallium arsenide substrate business, as well as our consolidated raw material joint ventures. That said, we saw a meaningful increase in AI-related demand for indium phosphide in China during Q2 and were also pleased that our subsidiary, Beijing Tongmei Xtal Technology Co., ('Tongmei'), received its first export control permits for indium phosphide late in the quarter. In addition, we remain highly focused on gross margin improvement and despite the revenue shortfall, we expect to deliver Q2 2025 gross margins in the high single digits.' The company will also host a conference call to discuss these results on July 31, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. PT. The conference call can be accessed at (800) 715-9871 (passcode 4378083). The call will also be simulcast at Replays will be available at (800) 770-2030 (passcode 4378083) until Aug 7, 2025. Additional investor information can be accessed at About AXT, Inc. AXT is a material science company that develops and manufactures high-performance compound and single element semiconductor substrate wafers comprising indium phosphide (InP), gallium arsenide (GaAs) and germanium (Ge). The company's substrate wafers are used when a typical silicon substrate wafer cannot meet the performance requirements of a semiconductor or optoelectronic device. AXT's worldwide headquarters are in Fremont, California and includes sales, administration and customer service functions. AXT has its Asia headquarters in Beijing, China and manufacturing facilities in three separate locations in China. In addition, as part of its supply chain strategy, the Company has partial ownership in ten companies in China producing raw materials for its manufacturing process. For more information, see AXT's website at Preliminary Results Disclosures and Forward-Looking Statements The company's actual results for the second quarter of 2025 are not yet available, have not yet been reviewed by our auditor, and may differ materially from the preliminary estimates above, which are not a comprehensive statement of the company's financial results and are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for fiscal 2025 or any future period. In addition, the foregoing paragraphs contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Federal securities laws, including, for example, statements regarding a preliminary revenue range and other financial results for the second quarter, ended June 30, 2025. Additional examples of forward-looking statements include statements regarding the market demand for our products, our product mix, our growth prospects and opportunities for continued business expansion, including technology trends, new applications and the ramping of Tier-1 customers, our market opportunity, our ability to lead our industry, our relocation, our expectations with respect to our business prospects and financial results, including our gross margin performance, and our development of larger diameter substrates that we believe will enable the next generation of technology innovation across a number of end-markets. These forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions that are subject to uncertainties and factors relating to the company's operations and business environment, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements contained in the foregoing discussion. These uncertainties and factors include but are not limited to: the requests for redemptions by private equity funds in China of investments in Tongmei, the administrative challenges in satisfying the requirements of various government agencies in China in connection with the listing of shares of Tongmei on the STAR Market, continued open access to companies to list shares on the STAR Market, investor enthusiasm for new listings of shares on the STAR Market and geopolitical tensions between China and the United States. Additional uncertainties and factors include, but are not limited to: the timing and receipt of significant orders; the cancellation of orders and return of product; emerging applications using chips or devices fabricated on our substrates; end-user acceptance of products containing chips or devices fabricated on our substrates; our ability to bring new products to market; product announcements by our competitors; the ability to control costs and improve efficiency; the ability to utilize our manufacturing capacity; product yields and their impact on gross margins; the relocation of manufacturing lines and ramping of production; possible factory shutdowns as a result of air pollution in China or COVID-19; COVID-19 or other outbreaks of a contagious disease; tariffs and other trade war issues; the financial performance of our partially owned supply chain companies; policies and regulations in China; and other factors as set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Each of these factors is difficult to predict and many are beyond the company's control. The company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Wales Online
01-07-2025
- Wales Online
Three managers at Lucy Letby hospital arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter
Three managers at Lucy Letby hospital arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter The suspects worked in senior roles at the Countess of Chester Hospital when Lucy Letby was a nurse Lucy Letby (Image: Cheshire Constabulary/AFP via Ge ) Three managers at the hospital where serial killer Lucy Letby worked have been arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. The suspects, who were in senior roles at the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015 and 2016, have been bailed pending further enquiries, said a spokesperson for Cheshire police. Letby, 35, is serving 15 whole life prison sentences for murdering seven children and attempting to murder seven more between June, 2015, and June, 2016. The murders took place while Letby was working as a nurse in the hospital's neonatal unit. Don't miss a court report by signing up to our crime newsletter here Detective Superintendent Paul Hughes, senior investigating officer for Operation Duet, said: "In October, 2023, following the lengthy trial and subsequent conviction of Lucy Letby, Cheshire Constabulary launched an investigation into corporate manslaughter at the Countess of Chester Hospital. "This focuses on senior leadership and their decision making to determine whether any criminality has taken place concerning the response to the increased levels of fatalities. Article continues below "In March, 2025, the scope of the investigation widened to also include gross negligence manslaughter. "This is a separate offence to corporate manslaughter and focuses on the grossly negligent action or inaction of individuals. "It is important to note that this does not impact on the convictions of Lucy Letby for multiple offences of murder and attempted murder. "As part of our ongoing enquiries, on Monday 30th June three individuals who were part of the senior leadership team at the [hospital] in 2015-2016, were arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. "All three have subsequently been bailed pending further enquiries. "Both the corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter elements of the investigation are continuing and there are no set timescales for these. Article continues below "Our investigation into the deaths and non-fatal collapses of babies at the neo-natal units of both the Countess of Chester Hospital and the Liverpool Women's Hospital between the period of 2012 to 2016 is also ongoing." The three arrested managers have not been named.
Time of India
27-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Cancer Daily Health Horoscope Today, June 27, 2025: Don't rush the outcome — nurture the process
Cancer, daily horoscopes await your discovery according to how mighty planets act on your health and vitality. Get helpful insights to coordinate your day with clarity and confidence. Maintain your balance and bask in the good cosmic vibes. Today reminds you that true growth takes time, so avoid rushing results. Focus on nurturing each step of your journey with patience and care. Trust the process even if progress seems slow or invisible. Your consistent efforts are planting seeds that will bloom in their own perfect time. Embrace patience and stay gentle with yourself. The outcome will be worth the wait. Cancer Health Horoscope Today Your health benefits when you maintain steady care and avoid impatience. Don't push yourself to recover or improve too quickly. Gentle exercise, proper nutrition, and restful sleep support your healing. Listen to your body's needs without frustration. Small daily habits nurture your wellbeing and prepare you for lasting vitality. Patience in health matters brings sustainable energy and strength. Cancer Wellness Horoscope Today Wellness depends on nurturing your mind and heart through regular self-care. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Avoid stressing over quick fixes or sudden changes. Consistency in meditation, relaxation, and healthy habits improves your mood and balance. Being kind to yourself during this process creates peace and resilience. Trust that steady care nurtures your whole being and brings deep wellness. Cancer Love Horoscope Today Love grows stronger when you focus on nurturing relationships patiently. Avoid forcing progress or rushing conversations. Small acts of care, kindness, and understanding deepen bonds. If single, trust that love unfolds in its own time. Being gentle with yourself and others fosters trust and intimacy. Nurturing the process creates lasting and meaningful connections. Cancer Career Horoscope Today Career progress comes through steady effort and patience. Avoid pushing for immediate results or stressing over deadlines. Focus on doing your best with each task and trust that growth will follow. Your consistent work ethic builds a strong foundation for future success. Nurturing your professional journey patiently opens doors to long-term rewards. Cancer Money Horoscope Today Money and finance improve when you nurture your resources carefully. Avoid hasty investments or impulsive spending. Consistent saving and thoughtful planning bring financial security. Patience with money matters creates stability and peace of mind. Trust that slow, steady growth leads to lasting abundance. Nurturing your financial health today prepares you for a secure tomorrow. Cancer Affirmation Today: I nurture each step and trust the journey. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Business Insider
24-06-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Buy now, pay later loans will soon hit credit scores — and experts think Gen Z could be at risk
Experts fear this could cause trouble for the biggest users of BNPL: Gen Z. BNPL loans don't behave like traditional credit: they break a purchase down into four interest-free payments over six weeks, making them harder to factor into credit scores. But there's an increased emphasis on monitoring the BNPL space, and FICO's move to incorporate BNPL loan data into its scores follows Affirm's move in April to start reporting new loans to Experian and TransUnion. Concerns about the impact of BNPL have risen alongside its rise in popularity. Research from EMARKETER predicts total US BNPL transactions to reach $108 billion in 2025, up from $94 billion in 2024. According to a Lendingtree report, 41% of BNPL users reported paying late, up from 34% a year ago. Users are increasingly leaning on BNPL to pay for essentials, with 25% of users buying groceries and 33% seeing BNPL as a "bridge" to their next paycheck. Gen Z and millennials have been the biggest adopters of this payment plan method. Lendingtree found that Gen Z was more likely to have multiple BNPL loans at the same time. The lack of impact on credit scores up to this point have been an attractive factor, according to a study by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. "BNPL is convenient because you don't need to pay credit interest, but that can also nudge young people to spend more and overextend," Fumiko Hayashi, vice president of economic research at the Kansas City Fed, told Business Insider. Aditi Routh, economist at the Kansas City Fed, attributes Gen Z's high usage to their tech savviness and openness to adopting new payment technologies. Gen Z in particular has exhibited weaker credit card spending growth compared to older generations, according to David Tinsley, senior economist at the Bank of America Institute. This could be a sign that rising living costs are putting pressure on younger consumers, and Gen Z could be relying on BNPL to help them avoid racking up credit card debt and hurting their credit scores. With credit scores no longer shielded from BNPL activity, Gen Z could be affected more than other cohorts. "The benefit is that the good repayment behavior may improve your credit score, but BNPL is unsecured credit. Multiple lines of unsecured credit use usually leads to a negative credit score," Hayashi said. While BNPL can theoretically be used in a low-risk way to manage cash flow, Hayashi and Routh found that BNPL users were significantly more likely to face financial constraints than non-users. BNPL users who paid late exhibited even higher levels of financial constraint. Given the fact that BNPL users tend to be younger and more financially vulnerable, increased regulation in the payments space could reveal consumer weaknesses and hit credit scores. Hayashi and Routh said they plan to continue monitor Gen Z spending habits to gather more information on the extent of the risk. "As a researcher, we don't know much about Gen Z behavior," Routh said. "We know boomers and Gen X behavior relatively well, but there's a lack of knowledge about young people."
