Hydroponics Daily

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 see...

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 le...

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...

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,...

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 permanga...

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 pr...

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 hydr...

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...

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily! In today's episode, we explore the fascinating process of re-vegging plants. Discover how certain hydroponic crops can be reverted from their mature, flowering state back to their juvenile form. While challenging, this technique offers unique advantages, such as preserving specific genetics and optimizing desirable traits. Join us as we delve into the methods of...

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp! In this episode, we delve into recent developments in the vertical farming sector, focusing on the collapse of major players like the Jones Food Company, which has gone into administration in the UK. Explore the challenges faced by unicorn companies such as Plenty and Bowery, who once led the industry but have now ceased operations. Dr. Sha...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, we delve into the challenging but rewarding world of growing extremely hot chilli plants, such as the notorious Carolina Reaper and other varieties boasting over a million Scoville heat units. Learn the secrets to germinating these fiery plants, including optimal temperature conditions and scarification techniques. Discover the ideal indoor environments and hy...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp continues his guidance for first-time growers. We move from the checklist of essentials to exploring the common pitfalls beginners face and the expert tips to overcome them. Dr. Sharp emphasizes the importance of establishing a good relationship with a local grow shop to benefit from their expertise, rather than relying solely on online purch...

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In today's episode, we dive into the essentials every beginner needs to kickstart their hydroponic journey. From understanding the optimal season to start your indoor grow, to choosing the right equipment like grow tents, LED lights, and circulatory fans, Dr. Sharp covers it all. Learn about the importance of using the right growing medium, sele...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, we dive into the common misconception that placing crocks (pieces of broken pot or stones) at the bottom of containers helps improve drainage. We explore why this practice, often passed down through generations or learned from magazines, may actually impede proper water flow. Through a simple experiment analogy with a sponge, we reveal how such practices can c...

Join Dr. Russell Sharp on this episode of Hydroponics Daily as he delves into the world of fungus gnats, a pervasive pest in hydroponics, houseplants, and horticulture. Discover their life cycle, learn effective control methods, and explore innovative solutions in development at Eutrema laboratories. Find out how to optimize your watering techniques and choose the right soil amendments to minimize...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the often overlooked yet crucial component of air movement in grow rooms and greenhouses. While many beginners focus on lighting and nutrients, Dr. Sharp emphasizes the importance of good airflow for healthy plant growth and prevention of fungal diseases. Understanding the role air movement plays in circulating stale air and maint...

Join Dr. Russell Sharp on Hydroponics Daily as he candidly shares his personal hydroponic blunders, proving that even experts are not immune to mishaps. From mistaking common growing issues for unique plant features to accidentally killing rare plants, Dr. Sharp's anecdotes are both entertaining and educational. In this episode, he hilariously recounts seven epic fails, including a costly car brea...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the world of phosphites, exploring their unique properties and significance in hydroponic systems. Often confused with phosphates, phosphites play a crucial role in promoting extensive root systems, particularly in crops like potatoes. While some claims suggest additional pest control benefits, the primary strength of phosphites l...

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp, where today we delve into the intriguing phenomenon of fasciation. Fasciation occurs when a plant’s developing bud is damaged, causing abnormal and often captivating growth patterns. From bulging stems to elongated flowers, fasciation alters plant structures, sometimes turning them into fascinating collector’s items. Learn about the natural...

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In this episode, Dr. Sharp dives into the world of houseplants, offering valuable advice for everyone from beginners to experienced growers. Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes, such as overwatering, and discover tips for thriving houseplants even in winter. Dr. Sharp also discusses the fascinating world of rare and variegated houseplant...

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp, the inventor of Gold Leaf fertilizer. In today's episode, Dr. Sharp explores IKEA's foray into the world of hydroponics with their 2016 launch of hydroponic equipment, including the VÄXER unit. Despite high hopes for promoting home-grown vegetables, the venture was short-lived. Dr. Sharp shares personal experiences using IKEA's kits, highli...

In this insightful episode, Dr. Russell Sharp discusses the intricacies of pest control using various types of sticky traps. Discover how yellow traps play a pivotal role in attracting and controlling aphids and other flying pests due to their color, which signals plant sickness to these insects. Dr. Sharp delves into the chemistry behind the stickiness, highlighting a particular substance known a...

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily, where today's brief episode delves into the importance of inlet filters in your grow room. While outlet filters are commonly used to control odors, inlet filters play a crucial role in keeping out unwanted pests and some diseases. Discover why positioning your inlet ducting high can prevent pests that can't fly very high, and learn about the simple solution of using a...

Join Dr. Russell Sharp on "Hydroponics Daily" as he takes us through the fascinating journey of how he invented Gold Leaf, or Liquid Gold, revolutionizing the world of hydroponic fertilizers. This innovative product, developed out of sheer determination and serendipitous innovation, simplifies the growing process for beginners and experts alike by offering a comprehensive one-part fertilizer solut...

In this captivating episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp dives into the fascinating world of plant sexuality and how it can be manipulated for better crop production. As spring arrives, it's a busy time for hydroponic enthusiasts seeking the perfect fertilizer. Dr. Sharp shares his experiences with plant sex changes, discussing everything from cucumbers and pumpkins to cannabis. Discove...