Hydroponics Daily

Bro Science Myths - Crocks in Pots

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 create more harm than good, leading to water retention rather than drainage. The episode highlights the importance of using rose pots, known for their upright and effective drainage design, offering an alternative to the widespread use of crocks.Join us in uncovering the truth about this bro-science myth and learn better techniques to ensure your plants thrive, while encouraging listeners to stay tuned for more horticultural insights.

Fungus Gnats: a major pest in hydroponics and houseplants

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 these pests. Plus, stay tuned for an exciting new invention that promises to revolutionize fungus gnat management.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Air Flow for Hydroponic Success

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 maintaining uniform environmental conditions, this episode provides insights into different fan types and their applications. Dr. Sharp offers practical tips on fan placement and highlights safety issues related to electrical components in grow rooms.
Additionally, the episode addresses the impact of LED lights on air movement and plant health, offering solutions to enhance LED lifespan and efficiency. Tune in to learn how to optimize airflow in your hydroponic system and ensure your plants thrive.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Laughable Hydroponic Fails from Dr. Russell Sharp

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 breakdown due to transporting mulch and an unexpected aphid infestation despite following conventional wisdom. Learn from his mistakes as he provides valuable insights into avoiding these common pitfalls in your own hydroponic journey.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

PhosPHITE: Unlocking Root Growth Secrets

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 lies in their ability to stimulate root growth effectively.
Dr. Sharp also addresses the controversial aspects of phosphite usage, from EU bans to misconceptions about their role as a phosphorus source. The episode provides valuable insights into different biostimulants available for root development, emphasizing alternatives like amino acids and humic acids for those seeking organic options.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Exploring the Fascinating World of Fasciation

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 and human-induced causes of fasciation, and discover how this phenomenon is both a gardener’s challenge and a unique selling point in the horticultural world.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Houseplants - care at home & opportunities for commercial cultivation

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 houseplants and shares insights for those looking to cultivate houseplants commercially. Tune in for expert advice on nutrients, pest control, and creating optimal conditions for your indoor garden.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser

Did IKEA's fail at hydroponics?

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, highlighting their quality and affordability. While the hydroponic units brought unlikely customers into IKEA, questions remain about their ultimate success. Discover why Dr. Sharp wishes for a revival of these units and the potentially missed opportunity of incorporating Gold Leaf fertilizer.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Sticky Solutions: the Science Behind Traps

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 as polybutene, famous for being one of the stickiest synthetic compounds. Learn about the practical applications of these traps in greenhouses and the surprising difficulties faced during their manufacturing process.
The episode further expands on the use of different colored traps for diverse pests and explores fascinating innovations and setbacks in the development of new trapping technologies. Whether it's combating thrips with blue traps or monitoring wireworms and slugs in agricultural settings, Dr. Sharp illustrates the diverse applicability and challenges within the realm of pest trapping.
Listen in for expert insights and inventive strategies that make up this crucial aspect of pest management, a must-hear for anyone engaged in plant care or agriculture.
 
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Inlet Filters- The Unsung Hero of Hydroponics?

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 mesh filter made from tights to block insects.
Moreover, explore how an inlet filter can prevent pest-transferred viruses from entering your grow room, ensuring a healthier environment for your plants. However, for spores, pollen, and mildew, more stringent measures might be necessary. Tune in for practical tips to maintain a pest-free hydroponic system and consider additional features for future-proofing your setup.
 
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