Hydroponics Daily
Daily clips of hydroponic science Presented by Dr Russell Sharp Brought to you by the team behind Gold Leaf - seed to harvest with just one bottle of feed
Inside Our New Patented Root Stimulant: A Phosphite Alternative
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...
Are your microbes dead? Free new service from Eutrema
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/
Insider Advice for Hydroponic Product Startups
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/
UK Fertiliser Rules Could Wipe Out Small Hydro Brands — What You Need to Know
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/
Taming Bitterness: How Hydroponics Could Create Milder Veggies
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...
The Top 10 Most Poisonous Plants You Might Grow (but hey, "they're natural")
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...
Biofortify Your Greens: Iodine, Selenium & Hydroponic Nutrition
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.
...
Don't Get Ripped Off: How to Choose Microbial Biostimulants
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...
Why Pumpkins Trap Forever Chemicals — and How Hydroponics Helps
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...
Hydroponics Wrapped 2025: Triumphs & Tough Lessons
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...
Coffee, Caffeine & Your Plants: Friend or Foe?
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...
Cotton Candy Grapes — Naturally Flavoured?
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/
<...Amazon’s Fake Plants: The Shocking Rise of AI-Generated Seed Scams
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...
Plant Melatonin: Supercharge Roots and Stress Tolerance in Hydroponics
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...
Are Soilless Crops Artificially Flavoured? Hydroponics Myth Busted
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...
UK Energy Shock: 94% Rise in Standing Charges Threatens Vertical Farms
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...
Carnivorous Plants & Bonsai - a potential hack for using Coco Grow Media
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...
Alternatives to Dosatrons: Which Fertigation Tool Wins?
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...
How to Save Virus-Infected Varieties; Thermotherapy for Crops
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...
Perennial Cereals: Are Kernza and Perennial Rice the Future of Food?
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...
Dosatron Secrets
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/
Cut-and-Come-Again: Hydroponic Hype vs. Reality
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
Glycerin: Flower preservation suitable for hops and legal cannabis displays?
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...
Dates for your diary for 2026 in Hydroponics: Must-Attend Events
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...
The Hydrogen Peroxide Clash Rocking European Hydroponics
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/
E‑Commerce Strategies for Hydroponic Growers
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...
Bootstrap to Success: Ditch credit for your customers
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...
Solenoids & Drippers: Master Hydroponic Water Flow
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
...Egypt’s Greenhouse Push: Army-Driven Hydroponics vs Morocco’s Desalination Boom
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...
Don't Feed Dormant Plants: The Hidden Nitrite Danger
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...
Lease to Grow: The Rise of Rental Hydroponic Systems
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
<...Rats in the NFT: Rodents, Risks and Hydroponic Safety
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...
Hidden Hydroponics: How Cosmetics Brands Quietly Grow Ingredients
Host Dr Russell-Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores how hydroponics and vertical farming are widely used by non-food companies; especially cosmetics and fragrance brands, to grow active ingredients, herbs, and flowers for skincare and perfumes.
The episode highlights companies in France, the US, and South Korea (including L'Oréal, Ule, Plant Advanced Technologies, and Therminic) and points out surprising uses like perfumery, medicinal herbs, and clean hydroponic skincare extracts.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
The Beet: A Podcast For Plant Lovers – Kevin Espiritu; Jacques Lyakov
The joe gardener Show – Joe Lamp...
Growing the Impossible: Hydroponic Crops the UK Can't Grow Outdoors
Dr. Russell Sharp explores crops that struggle outdoors in the UK due to short, cool seasons and shows how hydroponics or protected cultivation can make them viable. He discusses sweet potato slips, cotton, jute, castor bean, rice trials, peanuts, melons, chillies and more, plus business opportunities for growers and the effects of climate change on crop potential.
Listeners will learn which crops need grow rooms or greenhouses, which might be trialed outdoors, and ideas for commercial hydroponic production and supply to gardeners and farmers.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
T...
Hydroponics on Display: 8 Botanical Gardens to Visit
Dr. Russell Sharp tours botanical gardens around the world that feature hydroponic and aquaponic displays, from Pittsburgh and Dallas to Bethlehem, Malaysia, Dresden, Baghdad, and Irkutsk.
The episode highlights these sites as educational and STEM-focused exhibits, emphasizes hydroponics' water-saving benefits, and invites listeners to suggest other gardens for future episodes.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Richard Deverell
New York Botanical Garden – Jennifer Bernstein
Missouri Botanical Garden – Lúcia G. Lohmann
Singapore Botanic Gardens – Tan Puay Yok
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh...
Cardoon: The High‑Value Hydroponic Crop Michelin Chefs Crave
Dr Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores cardoon, a giant thistle related to globe artichoke, as a lucrative hydroponic crop ideal for small to medium grow rooms and a strong alternative to cannabis.
He outlines the crop’s fast growth and large biomass, year‑round production potential under controlled conditions, easy propagation from rhizomes, and culinary demand from Lyonnaise and Michelin‑star kitchens. He also touches on pests to watch for and practical benefits of soilless cultivation.
The episode includes practical cultivation notes and mentions Utrema’s fertilizers, biostimulants and biopesticides suited to cardoon production, plus a r...
HACK! Grow Your Own Predatory Mites: Slash Your Pest Control Costs
Dr. Russell Sharp shares a practical hack to dramatically reduce pesticide and biocontrol costs by culturing predatory mites on bran or pollen. This method lets growers seed a small container with purchased predatory mites, grow their prey mites on a feedstock, and maintain a self-sustaining predatory population to protect crops.
Key steps and precautions: buy untreated bran from an animal feed store, seed a small sealed container with purchased mites, keep warm with slight moisture, rotate harvests (use ~80% for release, keep ~20% to restart), and avoid storing bran near human food or large open volumes to prevent infestations...
The science behind pH perfect hydroponic solutions
Dr. Russell Sharp explains how to keep hydroponic solutions pH-stable, the role of balanced nitrates and ammonium, and how chemical buffers prevent pH swings.
The episode also covers other pH drivers, including microbial activity, sugary additives, water hardness and plant exudates, and offers practical tips for consistent fertigation management.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
Howard M. Resh – CuisinArt Hydroponic Farm
Neil Willey – University of the West of England, Bristol
Chungui Lu – Anglia Ruskin University
Tony Ryan – University of Sheffield
Eleni Stavrinidou – Linköping University<...
Light vs Heavy Hydroponics: Why System Weight Matters
Dr. Russell Sharp explores how the weight of hydroponic systems affects portability, stability, thermal buffering and practical uses—from classrooms and balconies to cruise ships and space missions.
He compares lightweight NFT setups (easy to move, low structural load) with heavy DWC reservoirs (thermal stability, theft resistance, backup water) and offers examples to help growers decide which approach fits their situation.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
Carnival Corporation & plc
Royal Caribbean Group
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH)
MSC Group (MSC Cruises)
Dis...
How McDonald's and Fast Food Drive Hydroponics
Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores how fast food chains, from McDonald’s to Subway and Taco Bell, consume enormous volumes of fresh produce and the opportunities this creates for hydroponic growers.
The episode covers surprising consumption figures, examples of high-demand chains, tips on targeting alternative buyers beyond supermarkets, and a note on Eutrema Ltd’s expansion to sell fertilisers directly in Ireland.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/
McDonald’s – Richard McDonald, Maurice McDonald
Burger King – Keith J. Kramer, Matthew Burns
KFC – Harland Colonel Sanders
Subway – F...