Hydroponics Daily

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/organic-fertilisers/yucca-extract/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains what true horticultural yucca extract is (from desert yucca, not cassava) and why it’s used: saponins act as natural wetting agents to improve water uptake, help flush salts and allelopathic chemicals, serve as an organic insecticidal soap for soft-bodied pests, and can provide biostimulant effects in fertilisers and livestock feed.

He also covers product quality and use: how pure yucca looks and behaves, common adulteration with synthetic surfactants or dilution, what to check on labels and safety data sheets, and practical tips for us...

Magnesium+ = https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/magnesium/

Ultimate Cal-Mag = https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/ultimate-cal-mag/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains magnesium’s central role in plants as the atom in chlorophyll, the typical signs of deficiency (interveinal chlorosis on older leaves), and why visible symptoms can be hard to spot in grasses and late to appear.

The episode covers common causes like nutrient antagonism from excess calcium or potassium, diagnostic tips, and practical remedies including CalMag for hydroponics, magnesium-plus foliar sprays for lawns, and Epsom salts for fruit crops, plus guidance on pr...

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/equipment/hand-lens-uv-led-illuminated/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why a hand lens is essential for pest identification and monitoring, how to use one, and the main reasons to inspect plants closely rather than guessing. He covers tiny pests like spider mites and thrips, distinguishing beneficial insects, confirming kills, and locating eggs.

The episode also reviews disease signs, trichome inspection for essential oil crops, root and rhizosphere checks, and advantages of LED and UV illumination. Regular close inspection with a hand lens can catch problems early and help avoid unnecessary pesticide use.

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explains insecticidal soaps—how they work by physically breaking down insect waxes and spiracles, acting as contact killers without systemic residues.

He covers practical use: effective mainly on soft-bodied pests and powdery mildew, the need for repeat sprays (every 5–7 days) during infestations, and precautions to avoid phytotoxicity and high temperatures.

Tips for choosing products focus on plant-safe, sodium-free formulas (potassium/ammonium alternatives), tank-mix compatibility, and organic options like Yucca Extract.

Dr. Russell Sharp reviews the Maxi Bright Maxi LED Pro TS 40W horseshoe under-canopy light, calling it the best product he has seen this year and explaining how individual under-pot lighting can boost photosynthesis, improve transpiration and reduce fungal risks.

He proposes a potential upgrade—combining the horseshoe LED with a horseshoe dripper to warm roots and cool LEDs—then explains why cost and safety (mixing water and electrics) make that unlikely.

Russell contrasts this standout product with a recently over-engineered launch, invites listener feedback, and points listeners to Hydro Bros' social channels for demos and...

Dr. Russell Sharp, founder of Eutrema Limited, explains the company's grower-first approach, serendipitous innovation, and the development of truly unique plant science products.

The episode covers Eutrema’s focus on sustainable, biorational solutions -like fully soluble liquid gypsum and concentrated salicylic acid, transparent formulations, and direct access to expert support.

Listeners also learn about free resources, podcasts, and how buying from Eutrema supports British innovation.

https://eutrema.co.uk/

Dr. Russell Sharp ranks and explains the major threats to fertilizer and pesticide prices in the UK looking toward 2027, covering energy costs, geopolitical risks, supply bottlenecks, and regulatory changes.

The episode highlights rising natural gas and oil prices, sulphur and phosphate shortages, Russia and Middle East tensions, the UK carbon border adjustment mechanism, potential sanctions on suppliers, and proposed harmonised regulations that could harm smaller biostimulant and hydroponic businesses.

Listeners will learn how these factors could drive up input costs, reduce product choice, squeeze farm margins, and feed into higher food and turf-care prices — plus wh...

Dr. Russell Sharp walks through the "Periodic Table of Plant Health," explaining macronutrients, micronutrients, non-mineral and non-essential elements, and common deficiency symptoms for hydroponic crops.

He also describes practical solutions, timing advice, free A4/A1 posters and sample swag available from Eutrema to help growers diagnose and manage plant nutrition more effectively.

https://eutrema.co.uk/plant-health-periodic-table-poster/

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses recent weather impacts on crops and lawns, a Black Friday humic acid offer (use code HUMIC15), and updates from Utrema on product compatibility tools and trade show plans.

The main focus is a new food‑grade root stimulant being developed to replace potassium phosphite: how it works, plans to patent it, and the testing program across at least nine plant species including greenhouse split‑pot trials and future field trials.

Listeners are invited to request small samples, follow progress on compatibility and tank‑mix data, and watch for upcoming trial results and pr...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why Eutrema no longer sells microbial products — from short shelf life and supply-chain dilution to competition with contaminated products — and why regulation alone won’t fix the industry.

He also announces a free testing service at Eutrema HQ in Lutterworth to verify whether microbial products contain the live, correct organisms claimed, and reminds listeners that Eutrema manufactures its own unique fertilizers and biostimulants.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/chitosan-biofungicide/

Dr. Russell Sharp of Eutrema shares practical advice for anyone launching a hydroponic product, covering market realities, product differentiation, and regulatory pitfalls.

Key takeaways: the UK market is quiet, focus on unique solutions, be prepared to say no, manage marketing spend, understand regulations, protect your business by bootstrapping, and treat grow shop owners as vital partners.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Hello and welcome back to Hydroponics Daily. Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down the new UK fertiliser and biostimulant consultation that could force costly registrations, third‑party efficacy testing and ingredient disclosure, risking many small brands and shrinking product ranges.

He explains the likely impact on hydroponics, lawn care and agriculture, why larger multinationals may benefit, how Utrema expects to cope, and urges listeners to respond to the consultation.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp explores how breeders, genetic tools (including CRISPR) and environmental controls in hydroponics can reduce strong or bitter flavours in vegetables.

He highlights examples—low‑sulphur Brussels sprouts and onions, milder marrows/zucchini, soap‑free coriander, low‑oxalate spinach, less‑phenolic eggplant and sweeter lettuce—and points to hydroponic fertilizer strategies and business opportunities for growers and breeders.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/

Christoph Matthes — Kultursaat e.V.
Nigel Kingston — Syngenta Seeds
Kevin Dudley — Cloughjordan Community Farm
Pat Malone — Cloughjordan Community Farm
Alfred Breed (Senior) — Mertoun Gardens
Da...

Dr. Russell Sharp closes out Hydroponics Daily’s 2025 run with a compact guide to the most toxic plants. He explains why “natural” or “plant‑derived” doesn’t mean safe and shares examples of species that can cause severe harm.

The episode lists the top poisonous plants to watch for, such as hemlock, giant hogweed, deadly nightshade, Brugmansia, monk’s hood, yew, oleander, castor bean, water hemlock and foxglove, plus practical safety warnings for growers and gardeners.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Tony Knight — Colorado State University
Richard Walter — Colorado State University
James...

Host Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explains how hydroponic fertigation and his product Gold Leaf (Liquid Gold in the UK) can be used to biofortify edible crops with nutrients like iodine, selenium, iron, zinc and silicon.

The episode covers practical benefits, higher micronutrient content, potential shelf-life and quality improvements, and serious cautions, especially selenium toxicity, stressing professional handling and precise dosing.

Listeners learn why hydroponics makes targeted nutrient enrichment easier than soil, which crops have been shown to respond (lettuce, basil), and how biofortification might impact human nutrition and future dietary needs.

...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how to choose and use microbial biostimulants for hydroponics, focusing on production/expiry dates, manufacturer credibility, and the trade-offs between liquid and powder formulations.

He recommends trusted suppliers (Legume Technology, Omex/Biomex, Symbiom, Koppert's Trianum P), suggests starting with Bacillus blends and Trichoderma, and advises using seaweed extracts, humic acids and mild fertilizers to feed, not kill, microbes.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Ben Lugtenberg — Leiden University

Jos M. Raaijmakers — Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW)

Corné M. J. Pieterse — Utrecht University

Paola B...

Dr. Russell Sharp explores research showing that squashes, pumpkins and other cucurbits can absorb persistent hydrophobic pollutants (PCBs, dioxin-like compounds, organochlorine pesticides and furans) because a specific plant protein binds these chemicals and transports them into the fruit.

The episode covers the health and food-safety implications, the potential to breed low-accumulating varieties or use phytoremediation, and why growing these crops hydroponically is a safer alternative to avoid soil-borne, long-lasting pesticides.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Todd C. Wehner — North Carolina State University
Warren Barham Henderson — North Carolina State University
Sam...

Dr. Russell Sharp reviews Hydroponics Daily in 2025, highlighting the top podcast episodes, surprising listener interests (pH, nutrient lockup, microgreens), event highlights, product plans, and both wins and challenges from the year.

He also covers industry news, unusual stories like illegal grows, predictions for 2026, and plans to shift the podcast format while continuing to support growers and new products.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Larry Smart — Cornell University
Virginia Moore — Cornell University
Christine Smart — Cornell University
Alan Taylor — Cornell University
(Jocelyn) Joss Rose — Cornell University
Glenn Philippe — Cornell Univ...

Dr. Russell Sharp examines the effects of coffee and tea on plants, explaining how caffeine and other compounds (tannins, organic acids, sugars) can act as low-dose biostimulants but become inhibitory or toxic at higher doses. He covers root drench vs foliar applications, allelopathy, impacts on microbes and pests, and how repeated use can harm photosynthesis, nutrient uptake and root health.

Practical takeaways: occasional small amounts may help rooting, but regularly pouring leftover caffeinated drinks on houseplants can cause overwatering, chemical stress, microbial shifts and long-term damage—so avoid routine use and be cautious if trying coffee grounds as...

Dr. Russell Sharp explores the story behind cotton candy grapes, explaining how they were created through patient, traditional plant breeding rather than artificial flavouring or genetic modification. He describes the selection process, the natural flavour compounds involved, and the decade-long effort by breeders to bring this unique-tasting fruit to market.

The episode also looks at research into breeding strawberries and other fruits for distinctive flavours, the role of modern genomic tools in speeding selection, and how these novel varieties could intersect with hydroponic and vertical farming systems.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp exposes a growing problem of fake plant listings and AI-generated seed scams on Amazon and other marketplaces, showing how buyers are being misled by impossible varieties (like bright blue hostas) and foreign drop-shippers.

He explains how to protect yourself—check seller and nursery credentials, prefer reputable nurseries or local stores—and shares a real seed mix-up story to contrast honest mistakes with deliberate fakes.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

More reputable growers and seed sellers:

Burpee — W. Atlee Burpee & Co.

Ferry-Morse — Ferry-Morse Seed Co.

Bo...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how melatonin — a molecule known for human sleep and stress regulation — is produced by plants and acts as a powerful antioxidant and growth regulator. In hydroponics it can enhance root growth, improve stress tolerance under high light or unstable conditions, delay leaf senescence, and support photosynthesis and secondary metabolite production.

Applied as a foliar spray, seed priming, or added to nutrient solutions at micromolar concentrations, melatonin is water-soluble and allows precise dosing in soilless systems. Research shows benefits in crops like tomato and lettuce, with increased root-to-shoot ratios and higher antioxidant levels under stre...

Host Dr. Russell Sharp tackles a Twitter claim that hydroponic crops lack micronutrients and are artificially flavoured, explaining why those assertions are incorrect and how micronutrient levels can be measured (e.g., atomic absorption spectroscopy).

He reviews research on manipulating flavor through nutrient levels, light, and biostimulants, notes the limited and mixed evidence, and concludes there is no solid proof of intentional artificial flavouring in hydroponic produce; soilless systems can match or even enhance some flavour-related compounds.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Gary Reineccius — University of Minnesota
Andrew Taylor — University of N...

Dr. Russell Sharp examines a warning from the UK Urban AgriTech group that a planned 94% increase in electricity network standing charges from April 2026 could dramatically raise operating costs for vertical farms and greenhouses, risking business failures, reduced domestic produce and higher food prices.

The episode explains how horticulture is excluded from the energy-intensive industries exemption, compares UK energy costs with EU competitors, and outlines how razor-thin margins make indoor growers particularly vulnerable; calling for urgent policy review and industry engagement.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Leo Marcelis — Wageningen University & Research
Er...

In this episode we examine why carnivorous plants and bonsai often struggle in coco grow media — coco (coir) can contain high sodium and is frequently buffered with calcium nitrate, resulting in elevated calcium and nitrogen compared with peat.

The host suggests a fix: use raw high-sodium coco and flush it with Liquid Gypsum (calcium sulfate) to remove sodium without adding nitrogen, creating a peat-free grow medium suited to carnivorous plants and bonsai and a potential niche business idea.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/

Ryan Neil — Bonsai Mirai

Bjorn Bjorholm — Eisei...

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explains how dosatrons work and compares practical alternatives for run‑to‑waste hydroponic systems, including Venturi injectors, electric metering pumps, and simple fertigation tanks. He outlines the pros and cons of each option — cost, accuracy, power needs, maintenance, and scale — and covers considerations about recirculation, environmental impact, and regulatory risk. Ideal for growers choosing the right dosing method for medium to large greenhouse operations.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Jean-François Hannequart — Dosatron International

Eric Roudaut — Dosatron International

Philippe Martin — Dosatron International

Pascal Lacroi...

Hello there, and welcome back to Hydroponics Daily, your go-to podcast for everything soilless cultivation. I am your host, Dr. Russell Sharp, the founder of Eutrema Limited, a company that makes truly unique fertilizers, biostimulants, and biopesticides that you won't find anywhere else. The technology is completely unique. And today, the topic of the podcast is what I would do if I was faced with a virus in my crop. Specifically a crop where you want to protect the genetic material and you can't just throw the plants away often when we say when you've got a virus the...

Dr. Russell Sharp explores the growing interest in perennial arable crops like Kernza, perennial rice and sorghum, explaining their environmental benefits, current commercial status, and the agronomic challenges they face.

The episode also discusses breeding and gene-editing opportunities to improve yield and resilience, and considers how perennial grains might fit into hydroponic and niche high-value markets.

https://eutrema.co.uk/

Maqsood Ali Wagan — Sindh Agriculture University

Farhan Ali Wagan — Sindh Agriculture University

Andrius Grigas — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry

Dainius Steponavičius — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agric...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how Dosatrons (water-powered dosing pumps) mix concentrated fertilizer like Gold Leaf/Liquid Gold into fertigation systems, describing the piston-driven mechanism, proportional injection, and why it maintains a constant concentration despite flow changes.

The episode covers practical setup tips for off-grid hydroponics — solenoids, drippers, solar pumps, and how a Dosatron enables accurate, electricity-free dosing, along with limitations (not for powders, pressure loss, very viscous or abrasive chemicals) and a brief mention of Venturi injectors.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily breaks down the truth behind "cut-and-come-again" vegetables and viral social media hacks, explaining which crops genuinely regrow and which claims are misleading.

Learn which leafy herbs and greens can be harvested multiple times, why most bulky vegetables won’t produce a marketable second crop, and when starting fresh is a better option for consistent yields.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Holly Wolf - Wolf of the Wild

Ivy Vernalis 

Farmer Belle 

curlygardens

rock.gardener 

TheRoseGarden

Dr. Russell Sharp explores advanced preservation methods for flower crops; from freeze-drying and glycerin sap replacement to citric acid treatments used for hops,cand how these techniques can create premium, display-ready products for shops, dispensaries, and e-commerce.

This episode offers practical ideas for ornamentals and specialty growers looking to add high-value, long-lasting products to their lineup.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Ryan Hopkins — Yakima Chief Hops

Karl VanEvanHoven — Yakima Chief Hops

Bryan Pierce — Yakima Chief Hops

Denis Gayte — Yakima Chief Hops

Missy Rav...

Dr. Russell Sharp outlines the key 2026 dates affecting hydroponic growers (equinoxes, longest day) and recommends major trade shows and conferences worldwide — from IPM Essen and Fruit Logistica to Greentech Amsterdam, Indoor AgCon and MJBizCon.

He also highlights UK and crop-specific events, tips for timing indoor grows, and invites listeners to suggest other shows for an updated diary.

Tue–Fri 27–30 Jan 2026 — IPM ESSEN (Essen, Germany) IPM ESSEN

Wed–Thu 11–12 Feb 2026 — Indoor Ag-Con (Las Vegas, USA) Indoor Ag-Con+1

Tue–Thu 9–11 Jun 2026 — GreenTech Amsterdam (RAI Amsterdam) GreenTech

Sat–Sun 8–9 Aug 2026 — UK Hydro Expo (Somerset) (tickets n...

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses the struggle of the UK and European hydroponic sector, focusing on recent enforcement in the Netherlands over continuous in-line dosing of hydrogen peroxide. He explains why regulators flagged the practice, the science behind peroxide breakdown, and his frustration with overly rigid enforcement.

Russell also offers practical advice: avoid continuous peroxide dosing to protect roots and yields, keep systems clean, and use peroxide sparingly. He reflects on the wider impact of regulation on innovation and shares how his company adapts to EU rules.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses e-commerce strategies for hydroponic businesses, advising against competing in commodity leafy greens and recommending niche, high‑value preserved products like freeze‑dried herbs, pickles, and gourmet fermented goods.

He outlines marketing channels (social ads, trade shows, brand storytelling), logistics considerations (cold chain vs preserved goods), alternatives like ornamentals and cut flowers, and cautions about high costs and platform pitfalls such as selling on Amazon.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Greens For Good

OnlyHydroponics

Max Green Farms

Gabbar Farms

LEAFY (Leaf...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why bootstrapping is the best route for many hydroponic ventures, emphasizing unique products, testing market demand, and protecting cash flow.

He warns against offering customer credit—suggesting pro forma payments and using strong order books to secure bank loans if scaling is needed—plus practical tips for long-term sustainability.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Geoffrey Guy

Brian Whittle

Justin Gover

Tom Whettem

Adam Windish

Paul Kenward

Ben Langley

Gabriel Newman

Sam Asht...

Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down how water is controlled in hydroponic systems: pressure‑regulated drippers set the flow rate, spikes only deliver the water, and solenoid valves control timing. He explains why pipe size matters little, how blockage and water hardness affect drippers, and why pH or RO water are common choices.

This short episode also previews dosing and fertigation meters to be covered next, and offers practical tips for automating reliable irrigation.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Gotham Greens

FresH2O Growers

Thanet Earth

Dr. Russell Sharp explores Egypt’s push into large-scale greenhouse and hydroponic production, driven in part by the military, and compares it to Morocco’s desalination-led expansion of fresh produce. The episode covers greenhouse construction, water supply challenges, berry and high-value crop ambitions, and how military involvement affects local agriculture and supply chains.

It examines implications for food security, competition between countries, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of soilless cultivation when pursued at national scale.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/

Tutankhamun

Cleopatra

Ramses II

Nefertiti

Im...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why you should drastically reduce or stop fertilizing perennial crops during winter dormancy or cold storage. Plants take up little or no nutrients in cold conditions, and added nitrogen—especially ammonium—can convert to toxic nitrites that harm cellular respiration, photosynthesis and root health.

He recommends dialling fertiliser back to near zero during dormancy, avoiding ammonium-based formulations in cold media, and resuming accurate dosing only when plants are actively growing or in heated environments.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Rattan Lal – Ohio State University

Asmeret Asefaw...

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explores leasing and rental business models for hydroponic systems—ranging from small kitchen towers to commercial vertical farms—covering potential revenue streams, financing advantages, turnkey options for growers, and the practical risks involved.

He highlights examples from the industry, discusses who benefits from rentals, and invites listeners to share their experiences or case studies.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Monty Don

Alan Titchmarsh

Adam Frost

Frances Tophill

Joe Swift

Arit Anderson

Carol Klein

Dr. Russell Sharp of Utrema discusses a striking Facebook post—an AI image of rat droppings on an NFT lettuce system—and asks whether rodents are a real threat in hydroponics.

The episode covers the main risks rodents pose: disease transmission (salmonella, leptospirosis, hantavirus), contamination of recirculating fertigation solutions, crop damage, and quality/safety losses.

Practical control advice is offered using an integrated pest management approach: seal entry points, install fine mesh on vents, reduce outdoor hiding spots, use traps (preferred over poisons), monitor and keep pest logs, and consider professional tamper-resistant services for larger oper...