Hydroponics Daily

Dr. Russell Sharp explains the whitefly life cycle, why they hide under leaves and how to control them in hydroponic systems. He also shares microgreen hydroponic tips and the importance of removing plant material to break pest life cycles. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/eutrema-insecticidal-soap-sodium-free/

Dr Russell Sharp explains what whitefly are, why they threaten greenhouse and outdoor hydroponic crops, and how to detect them early. The episode covers monitoring methods, prevention (filters, airflow, sanitation), biological controls like Encarsia formosa, and selective chemical options including insecticidal soaps and rotation strategies. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/eutrema-in...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why sodium is highly toxic to plants, how it damages cellular functions, causes nutrient imbalances and reduces yield, and why osmotic stress is not the only issue. He outlines common hidden sources of sodium in hydroponics — low-grade fertilizers, micronutrient chelates, grow media, water sources, insecticidal soaps and recycled inputs — and gives practical advice to av...

Dr. Russell Sharp shares a Liverpool tour and a farmer's rhubarb story that highlights how fragile indoor-grown plants can be when transplanted outdoors. The episode outlines why hardening off and weaning are critical for plants moving from hydroponic or vertical systems to field cultivation, and offers practical takeaways to avoid transplant shock. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gol...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why deliberately growing microgreens in darkness produces taller, sweeter, and easier-to-harvest seedlings. He shares observations from trials with basil, mustard, pea shoots, spring onions and more, and explains how etiolated growth converts seed starches into sugars for better flavour. The episode also covers practical tips and trade-offs for small-scale production. ht...

Dr. Russell Sharp invites listeners to Hydroponics Daily to get a free sample in exchange for an Apple Podcasts review — just screenshot your review and email it to him to claim a product. Available samples include humic acid concentrate, dechlorinator, Sticky Fingers cleaner and Clear Mist humidifier treatment; international listeners can still participate with shipping arranged when the host vis...

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explores the practical science of growing crops on Mars — water sources and site choices, lighting and power options, and why indoor, LED‑lit hydroponics (NFT, aeroponics) is most likely. He examines Martian regolith as a potential grow medium (nutrient content, perchlorates and removal methods), atmospheric challenges, closed‑loop recycling, automation and 3D‑pri...

Dr. Russell Sharp of Eutrema Limited breaks down why algae is a problem in hydroponic and greenhouse reservoirs—how it competes for nutrients and oxygen, clogs lines, and risks crop and food-safety issues. He compares small-scale cleaning methods with the challenges of large-volume systems. The episode outlines chemical sterilisation options (hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, chlorine dioxide), w...

This episode of Hydroponics Daily unpacks the rise of Hawthorne Horticulture, a Scotts Miracle-Gro subsidiary (Hagedorn family) that bought major hydroponic brands like Gavita, General Hydroponics and Botanicare, and the controversies that followed. We explore post-lockdown decline, Scotts’ strategy to move Hawthorne off its balance sheet into an opaque independent partner (now Hawthorne Collectiv...

Dr. Russell Sharp explores a new 3,000 m² commercial hydroponic leek facility in Ypres, Belgium, developed by Agro Reo, Hydromasters and Endura with VLEA and EU support. The outdoor deep-water system promises faster cycles, reduced soil-borne disease, closed-loop water and automated harvesting, enabling soil-free exports and competition with traditional field-grown leeks. https://eutrema.co.uk/sho...

Dr. Russell Sharp reviews Nordetect’s upcoming handheld tester that measures nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur in fertigation streams using a patented agrochip plus spectrophotometry, delivering lab-level results in about three minutes instead of days. https://www.nordetect.com/ The episode explains how the device could enable real-time nutrient monitoring, integrate w...

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses how environmental automation can help grow rooms and greenhouses — and what happens when it breaks. He recounts a Dutch grape nursery where vent failures during a heatwave pushed temperatures over 50°C (122°F), ruining about 95% of the harvest, and an orchid grower who lost roughly 75% of his crop after a power outage disabled vents and shade systems. The episode underl...

Dr. Russell Sharp explores the surprising world of bee-unfriendly plants — species whose nectar or flower structure can harm bees or taint honey. Examples discussed include rhododendron and Kalmier (gravinotoxin), the strawberry tree (arbutin), tulips and lime (toxic sugars), nicotine-laced tobacco, and double/ornamental flowers that block pollinators. The episode also considers theories for why p...

Dr. Russell Sharp explains vivipary, a rare form of plant propagation where seeds germinate while still attached to the parent plant, producing plantlets that drop off ready to grow. The episode covers causes (low ABA/high moisture), examples (mangroves, Kalanchoe, alliums, carnivorous plants, tomatoes, cannabis), differences from false vivipary, and practical implications for hydroponic growers....

Dr. Russell Sharp explores recent research into biostimulants made from sea urchins—created to reduce urchin overpopulation in kelp forests and potentially used in hydroponics. The episode compares sea urchin products to traditional seaweed extracts, discusses variable growth results (lettuce trials), sustainability and regulatory concerns, and concludes seaweed extracts currently outperform sea u...

Explore the innovative world of soilless cultivation in this exciting episode of Hydroponics Daily. Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the state-of-the-art SAIA agro-robotics greenhouse located in the Dutch countryside, showcasing its cutting-edge aeroponic system designed for growing tomatoes without traditional media. Witness the fascinating process where tomato plants, supported by twine and moved v...

Welcome to this episode of Hydroponics Daily, where Dr. Russell Sharp highlights the transformative world of hydroponics in North Dakota. This state, known for its harsh winters and reliance on imported produce, is seeing a resurgence in local, sustainable farming practices. Meet Larry Schumacher, a dedicated hydroponic pioneer in Bismarck, whose farm grows a variety of greens including lettuce, p...

Join us in this episode of Hydroponics Daily as we delve into the exciting world of tunnel hydroponics. Discover how countries like Spain, Italy, and Finland are transforming abandoned underground spaces into thriving agricultural hubs. From aromatic herbs to leafy greens, explore the diverse array of crops being cultivated in these unique environments. Learn about the advantages of stable tempera...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, hosted by Dr. Russell Sharp, explore the fascinating world of wheatgrass, a versatile crop that thrives without soil, fertilizers, or nutrients. Discover the step-by-step process to grow wheatgrass indoors, and learn how to harvest it at the perfect stage for juicing. Dr. Sharp shares invaluable tips on cost-saving practices, including a clever way to source a...

Welcome to another episode of Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp, your trusted source for soilless cultivation insights. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing process of growing plants from seeds that have been stored for a long time, focusing on the specific challenges and strategies involved. We explore the importance of purchasing more seeds due to potential low germination rates...

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, host Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the intricate web of hydroponic produce mislabeling originating from Morocco, with a focus on the controversial claims over Western Sahara. While Moroccan produce graces European supermarket shelves, questions about their true origin stir disputes across borders. The podcast provides insights into how the European Union might...

Join Dr. Russell Sharp as he explores the fascinating niche of edible flowers in hydroponic cultivation. Discover why these vibrant blooms are not just decorative but valuable culinary ingredients, adding unique flavors and aesthetics to dishes. Learn about the specifics of growing high-quality edible flowers without pesticides, ensuring freshness and color that high-end customers crave. Dive into...

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily, your ultimate source for soilless cultivation insights. In today's episode, we delve into the fascinating world of Azolla, an aquatic fern with extraordinary growth potential. Discover how Azolla's rapid biomass production and ability to fix nitrogen without flowering make it an ideal fodder for livestock. Learn about the nutrient needs, particularly phosphorus,...

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily, hosted by Dr. Russell Sharp, founder of Eutrema Limited. In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating world of the hydroponics industry in the UK, analyzing trends through a graph plotted on Google Sheets. Discover how the COVID-19 pandemic spurred a surge in hydroponic companies and how 2025 signals a turning point with more companies forming than dissolving. Dr....

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily, where Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the fascinating world of soilless cultivation. In this episode, we explore a unique opportunity for those with a substantial budget: a remarkable $790,000 hydroponic farm up for grabs in Georgia, meticulously designed for high-efficiency leafy green production. Discover the features of this shipping container-based system, which off...