Hydroponics Daily

Hydroponics for growing weed (actual weeds!)

In this episode Dr. Sharp explores the unusual topic of growing weeds — specifically black grass — using hydroponics.
Key Points:
Why Grow Black Grass?
Black grass is the #1 arable weed in the UK, especially harmful to cereal crops like wheat and barley.
It’s resistant to herbicides and there are no GM crops in the UK to help control it.
Public is unaware of its impact because it doesn't affect home gardens — unlike more well-known weeds like Japanese knotweed.
Eutrema’s Approach:
Dr. Sharp’s company, Eutrema, is developing biological control methods using naturally occurring mildew and rust pathogens.
These fungi stunt black grass growth (rather than kill it), allowing cereal crops to outcompete it.
Their pathogens are highly specific (forma specialis) and pose no risk to other crops.
Why Hydroponics?
Black grass is difficult to grow in greenhouses and standard compost due to pests and diseases like “take-all.”
Hydroponics allows for clean, controlled growth, eliminating many variables.
They use NFT systems (nutrient film technique) for better consistency and plant health.
Challenges in Growing Black Grass:
It’s tough to germinate and cultivate due to its seed structure and sensitivity.
Silicon is crucial in their nutrient mix because grasses like black grass accumulate high levels of silicon.
Interesting Experiments:
Testing how UV light affects spore viability.
Developing plant-friendly “sunscreen” formulations to protect beneficial fungi from UV damage.
Beyond Black Grass – Other Weeds for Hydroponics:
Dr. Sharp muses on potential uses for other “weeds”:
Fat hen (once a Roman crop), dandelions (used for medicine and drink), shepherd’s purse (edible in Asia).
Mentions nettles (textile potential), Japanese knotweed (biostimulant uses), and even moss (teased for the next episode).
🔬 Takeaway:
This episode flips the script — instead of eradicating weeds, it explores cultivating them as part of solving major agricultural problems. It’s a smart fusion of hydroponics, pathology, and sustainable innovation, with potential to scale.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Hydroponic Legumes?

Welcome to another exciting episode of Hydroponics Daily with your host, Dr. Russell Sharp. Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of legumes and their potential in hydroponic systems. In this episode, we explore the complexities and benefits of growing peas, beans, and other legumes without soil. Discover how these crops are not only a source of plant-based protein but also a solution for sustainable agriculture and food security.
We also discuss the unique challenges of hydroponic legume cultivation, such as nutrient management and the role of beneficial microbes in nitrogen fixation. Learn about innovative approaches from around the world, including insights from commercial growers and groundbreaking research in Palestine.
Whether you are an experienced hydroponic grower or new to soilless cultivation, this episode offers valuable insights into the potential of legumes in future food systems. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on how legumes could revolutionize agriculture and contribute to a more sustainable planet.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Hydroponic Potatoes: The Future of Tuber Cultivation?

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp explores the exciting potential of growing potatoes without soil. With a focus on targeting listeners in Idaho, the world center for potato production, and North Dakota, the third-largest potato producer in the United States, Dr. Sharp delves into the benefits and challenges of cultivating potatoes hydroponically.
He explains the historical significance of potatoes, from the Great Famine in Ireland to their role in World War I, and discusses how pest and disease control are crucial in potato farming. Hydroponically grown potatoes can offer significant water savings and better disease resistance, potentially revolutionizing both edible and seed potato production.
Dr. Sharp also highlights current research initiatives around the world, including projects in Norway, California, and even a Finnish metal mine. While hydroponically grown potatoes are not yet widely produced for commercial purposes, the episode provides a glimpse into the future possibilities of hydroponic potato farming and its potential benefits for sustainable agriculture.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Plastic Foams as a Hydroponic Growing Medium

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the controversial use of plastic foams as growing media in hydroponic systems. Despite their affordability, phenol formaldehyde resins come with significant environmental concerns, particularly their non-recyclability and potential to degrade into microplastics. Dr. Sharp weighs the pros and cons, comparing this material with more traditional options like cocoa and rockwool, and explores why its use remains limited. Whether you're a fan of innovative growing techniques or concerned about sustainability, this episode offers valuable insights into the complex world of soilless cultivation.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

"Flushing" in Hydroponics: Essential Practice or Overhyped Tradition?

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp explores the controversial topic of flushing in hydroponic systems. With the sweltering UK heat as a backdrop, he delves into the reasons why growers from different backgrounds, from lettuce to legal cannabis, might choose to incorporate flushing in their practices.
Dr. Sharp explains what flushing entails: running nutrient-free water through the system to remove excess salts and residues before harvest. He discusses its proposed benefits, such as improved flavor and aroma in crops, reduced harshness in smoking plants like legal cannabis, and the potential for lowering harmful nitrate levels in edible greens.
The episode also covers the contents and effectiveness of popular flush products, debates surrounding their necessity, and practical flushing tips for various crops. Whether you're a seasoned hydroponics enthusiast or new to the field, tune in to weigh the pros and cons of this widely debated technique.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Seedling Establishment in Hydroponics: Tips and Tricks

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily! In this episode, we dive into the challenges of establishing seedlings in hydroponic systems. Explore various methods, from using mineral wool and volcanic rock to affordable DIY setups, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery and optimal growth conditions for a successful hydroponic garden. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and maximize your plant's potential in this informative session.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Breaking News: Osram takes legal action against Growers!

In today's episode of Hydroponics Daily, host Dr. Russell Sharp dives into a controversial legal battle rocking the hydroponics world. Lighting giant Osram is making headlines for pursuing legal action not just against competitors but also against growers using LED products they believe infringe on their patents. This unexpected move has stirred significant debate and concern among the horticulture community.
The focus centers on Osram's claims against major brands like Hawthorne Horticulture's AgriLux and Gavita, potentially affecting growers in the U.S. and Germany. With high stakes involved, the outcome of this legal saga could reshape industry dynamics and patent enforcement strategies.
The episode explores the implications for growers, manufacturer responses, and the broader ramifications in the hydroponics sector. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Whether you're using Osram, Gavita, or AgriLux lights, this episode is essential listening for anyone in the hydroponic and horticultural fields.

Downy Mildew in Hydroponics

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the challenges posed by downy mildew, a common but often misunderstood threat to hydroponic growers. Downy mildew can devastate crops like lettuce, spinach, and legal cannabis, thriving in cool, humid conditions. Dr. Sharp explains how to identify this water mold, which presents as yellow spots on leaves, and provides practical advice on prevention and treatment. From controlling humidity to selecting resistant crop varieties, learn crucial strategies to protect your yield from this parasitic invader.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/chitosan-biofungicide

Graft Chimeras - Amazing botanical curiosities

Welcome to an intriguing episode of Hydroponics Daily, where we delve into the captivating world of plant chimeras. Inspired by Greek mythology, these unique plants combine genetic materials, like the head of a lion, body of a goat, and tail of a dragon, resulting in bizarre and picturesque botanical wonders.
Learn about the history, formation, and propagation of chimeras, including famous examples like Adam's Laburnum and Dallimore's Chestnut. Discover how accidental genetic mixing during grafting can produce these rare phenomena and explore potential ways to creatively experiment with chimeras in your own garden.
Join us as we navigate the fascinating intersection of plant science and myth, uncovering the secrets behind these extraordinary horticultural marvels.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

pH in hydroponics - essentials and master tips

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily! In this episode, we delve into the vital topic of pH in hydroponics, a subject surprisingly yet to be covered extensively in over 150 episodes. We explore the basics of pH, from the chemistry behind it to its pivotal role in nutrient availability for plants.
Discover the optimal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 in hydroponics, where nutrients are most soluble, ensuring the health and growth of your plants. Learn how the pH scale's logarithmic nature can drastically impact nutrient absorption, why constant monitoring is crucial, and how to adjust pH levels sustainably. We also uncover the risks associated with hazardous chemicals used for pH adjustment and provide safe alternatives like citric acid.
Tune in for practical tips on managing pH effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and optimize your hydroponic systems for success. Whether you're a seasoned grower or a beginner, this episode is packed with insights to help you achieve high yields and healthy plants through mastering pH control. Don't miss this essential discussion on hydroponics and the power of pH!
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/biostimulants/sea-silica-silicon-fertiliser