Hydroponics Daily

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In this episode, we dive into the intriguing world of polyploidy in plants. Discover the complexities of plant chromosomes and learn how polyploidy can lead to larger, more resilient plants—at your own risk. We explore methods like ultrasound and colchicine that can induce polyploidy and discuss its potential benefits and downsides in horticulture.

Dr. Sharp also shares updates on the continuing challenges with hops research and teases the upcoming topic of micropropagation. Tune in to learn, explore, and stay updated on the latest in plant science and hydroponics in...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the intriguing topic of whether talking to your plants and playing music can influence their growth. The discussion reviews historical and modern perspectives, including scientific experiments by Korean and Indian researchers that suggest specific sound frequencies might affect plant genes and growth. A unique segment explores the potential of using ultrasonic frequencies as an alternative to synthetic growth regulators, based on experiments conducted in Bulgaria. The episode also provides updates on ongoing spring onion trials in different growing media, aiming to present findings at an upcoming trade show...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the intricacies of seed storage, a topic crucial for hydroponic enthusiasts. Discover which seeds are unsuitable for storage due to their recalcitrant nature and learn how to properly store non-recalcitrant seeds to maintain their viability.

Dr. Sharp guides listeners through the process of determining the ideal conditions for seed storage, emphasizing the importance of dryness, temperature, and darkness. He discusses the dangers of mutations over time and offers insights into the practices used by global seed banks. Whether for academic study or practical application, this episode...

In this intriguing episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the world of forced vegetables. Covering the mysterious Rhubarb Triangle in Yorkshire, where 90% of all forced rhubarb is grown, Dr. Sharp explains the intriguing process of etiolation. This process turns plants white in darkness, producing deliciously succulent stems.

Listeners will learn about the history and techniques behind forcing vegetables like rhubarb, asparagus, and hop asparagus, highlighting their culinary appeal and market value. The episode also sheds light on the hydroponic cultivation of chicory, known as "hydro witloof," and its significance...

Welcome to another eye-opening episode of Hydroponics Daily. In today's discussion, we dive into personal opinions on the five worst products within the hydroponics industry. We examine unreliable eBay grow lights, sodium-based plant washes, undecipherable plant tonics, inadequately sealed grow tents, and unnecessary flush products. Each of these items is scrutinized for their flaws and potential impacts on plant growth. Join the conversation and decide for yourself whether these products are as ineffective as claimed. Don't miss out on the lively debates and insights shared in this episode.

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In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp dives into an unexpected issue within hydroponic systems: slugs and snails. A recent inquiry from a customer highlighted these pests infiltrating a nutrient film technique (NFT) system, causing havoc despite common preventative measures.

Dr. Sharp explores various solutions, from beneficial nematodes to the ferric phosphate product, "Slugger," discussing their efficacy and potential drawbacks. He also examines the role of weather and environmental conditions in the slug invasion, highlighting the challenges in controlling these pests.

Listeners are encouraged to explore the differences between slug deterrents, with practical...

Welcome to another episode of Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. Today, we delve into the intriguing world of chemical scrubbers in horticulture. Discover the essential role these scrubbers play in removing harmful ethylene gas, a plant hormone with potential negative effects on crops like tomatoes, which may lead to wilting and leaf drop.

Learn about the process of using potassium permanganate solutions to cleanse the air in greenhouses, and explore alternative methods to control ethylene levels. Dr. Sharp also discusses which crops benefit from these scrubbers and advises growers on when not to use them, especially...

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In this episode, we delve into the essentials of setting up a medium-sized Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system in the Utrema laboratories. Dr. Sharp discusses transitioning from cocoa to NFT systems to manage aphid infestations and increase plant yield while optimizing grow space.

Learn about the benefits of NFT systems, the setup process using everyday materials like guttering, and how to maintain your system to avoid common pitfalls like pump failures. Discover techniques to keep your growing environment sterile and productive, including the integration of UV filters and...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp takes us through the fascinating history of hydroponics, debunking common misconceptions along the way. Contrary to popular belief, the practice didn’t start with the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. While ancient Babylonian horticulture involved groundbreaking irrigation techniques, it lacked the soilless cultivation we associate with modern hydroponics.

We travel through time, visiting 17th-century experiments with water-grown plants, to Professor William Frederick Gericke’s groundbreaking work in the 1930s that truly established hydroponics as we know it today. Gericke’s innovations paved the way for modern crop production, crucial contri...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, we delve into the transformative benefits of hydroponic farming, setting the stage for a revolution in modern agriculture. Explore how hydroponics allows for increased crop yields and out-of-season production, positioning it as the go-to method for commercial growers seeking to maximize efficiency and profit.

Learn about the significant reduction in soil-borne diseases and the optimization of fertilizer regimens, making hydroponics not only more productive but also healthier for consumers. Discover the innovative solutions hydroponics provides for contamination challenges and how its lightweight nature opens up agricultural possibilities in unexpected places.