Hydroponics Daily

Extracting gold from plants

In this intriguing episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the remarkable story of Fritz Haber, the man behind the Haber-Bosch process. Despite saving billions from starvation through the invention of nitrogen fertilizer, Haber's reputation remains controversial due to his involvement in chemical warfare. This episode explores Haber's lesser-known venture to extract gold from seawater and his miscalculations that led to its impracticality.
Dr. Sharp shifts focus to the fascinating world of hyperaccumulator plants. These unique plants can absorb significant amounts of metals, including precious ones like gold. He explains how certain species, such as the American perennial silky phacelia and Indian mustard, can be harnessed for eco-friendly mining practices. Furthermore, Dr. Sharp discusses the potential role of hydroponics in enhancing metal extraction efficiency from contaminated streams or effluents.
This episode leaves listeners pondering the potential synergy between hydroponics and sustainable mining, urging innovative thinkers to explore this promising frontier further.
 
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Trap Crops

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the intriguing world of trap crops. Unlike carnivorous plants, which evolve to gain nutrients from catching and decomposing animals, trap crops are used as a strategy to control pests within crops. Examples include radishes protecting carrots from wireworms and mustard attracting caterpillars away from cabbages.
Dr. Sharp discusses the controversial nature of trap crops and the limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. While they may offer benefits, such as reducing pest numbers, they also pose risks. These include attracting more pests or inadvertently increasing pest populations if not managed correctly.
The episode also explores unique examples like the South American plant, Philcoxia, which attracts and decomposes nematodes using its underground sticky leaves. With insights into using plants like marigolds for aphid control, this episode offers a comprehensive view of the potential and pitfalls of trap crops in gardening and hydroponics.
 
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Hydroponic Trends in 2025

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, join Dr. Russell Sharp as he sits down with Matthew Wallace, to discuss the emerging trends in hydroponics for 2025. From the increasing challenges of managing spider mites and other pests to the evolving fertilizer practices causing plant burns, this episode uncovers the critical shifts in the industry.
Matthew shares insights into the changing landscape of hydroponics, including the rise in houseplant diversification and the current absence of UK trade shows. Discover how the hydroponic community is adapting to these shifts and what the future holds for growers worldwide. Whether you're an experienced grower or new to the scene, this podcast provides valuable information to help you thrive in the dynamic world of hydroponics.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Boost Your Flower Yield with GIRDLING!

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In this episode, we dive into the technique of girdling to potentially boost your crop yield and quality, particularly for flowering plants. Learn how this method helps concentrate sugars and hormones in the upper sections of the plant, enhancing flower buds, resin, and terpene production. While girdling may seem unconventional, it might be the key to a more bountiful harvest. Join us as we explore this intriguing technique and its application in hydroponics.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser

Triacontanol - a powerful hydroponic boost, but how does it work????

Welcome back to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp. In this episode, we delve into the intriguing world of triacontanol, a popular biostimulant in hydroponics. Often unbeknownst to users, this fatty alcohol derived from natural sources like beeswax, plays a crucial role in many growth-boosting products. Despite its widespread use, the exact mechanism of how triacontanol enhances photosynthesis remains elusive.
Join us as we explore its origins, applications, and the remarkable, sometimes explosive, growth effects it achieves. Whether it's causing a sensation in Asian horticulture or quietly aiding Western small-scale growers, triacontanol proves to be a fascinating component of the hydroponic landscape.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser

World's Best Fertilizer - and it is NOT Gold Leaf!

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp explores an unconventional yet highly effective approach to plant growth: using your shadow as a fertilizer. Drawing on over three decades of experience, Dr. Sharp emphasizes the importance of being physically present in your grow room or garden to monitor and address issues such as pests, diseases, and nutrient imbalances before they escalate. He highlights the limitations of automation and the value of personal engagement in enhancing plant health and yield.
Dr. Sharp further contrasts the cost-free benefits of using your shadow with the premium features of Gold Leaf, also known as Liquid Gold in the UK, a top-tier fertilizer alternative. Listeners are encouraged to balance technology with time spent among their plants to enjoy and optimize their hydroponic setups. The episode also addresses common overzealous practices that can hinder growth, such as early defoliation and premature harvesting, urging growers to consider timing and patience for the best results.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser

Florigen - The Flowering Hormone

In this episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp delves into the fascinating world of florigen, the elusive hormone responsible for flowering in plants. Drawing from his extensive research, particularly on rhododendrons, Dr. Sharp explores the complexities and breakthroughs surrounding florigen's discovery. He discusses the role of the FT protein in Arabidopsis, the intriguing concept of anti-florogens, and the potential impacts of synthetic florigen on agriculture and conservation. Join Dr. Sharp as he unravels the secrets behind plant flowering, offering insights into how this knowledge might revolutionize the way we cultivate both ornamental and edible crops.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser

Carcinogenic Fertilizers - A secret scandal

In this eye-opening episode of Hydroponics Daily, Dr. Russell Sharp sheds light on the alarming use of carcinogenic fertilizers in agriculture, particularly in North America. He highlights the dangers posed by cobalt and nickel-based products, which remain in the environment indefinitely, posing significant health risks. Dr. Sharp calls for awareness and action, encouraging listeners to help expose this global issue and ensure safer farming practices.
Email russell@eutrema.co.uk to help fight this!

What does 'senescence', 'necrosis', 'abscission', and 'chlorosis' mean?

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily with Dr. Russell Sharp! In this enlightening episode, we delve into the intricate world of plant health, focusing on four key terms crucial for diagnosing leaf issues in hydroponics: chlorosis, senescence, abscission, and necrosis. Understanding these terms is essential for identifying and addressing nutrient deficiencies and environmental stressors that affect plant vitality.
Chlorosis, characterized by the yellowing of leaves, often signals a nutrient deficiency such as nitrogen or iron. Senescence, the browning and dying off of leaves, can be a natural process or a result of dry soil and high fertilizer conductivity. Abscission, where leaves drop off still green, often occurs due to oxygen deprivation in the roots. Lastly, necrosis, the blackening of leaf tissues, signals calcium deficiency, notably in crops like tomatoes and lettuce.
Join Dr. Sharp as he clarifies these scientific terms, helping you better understand the complex interactions in your hydroponic system and improve your crop's health. Tune in and share this valuable knowledge with fellow hydroponics enthusiasts!
 
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Seed Sterilization in Hydroponics

Welcome to Hydroponics Daily! In this episode, we delve into the significance of seed sterilization for hydroponic growers. As we embrace our growing North American audience, we discuss crucial topics like quarantine practices and the importance of sterilizing seeds to prevent diseases, pests, and other issues that can arise from unreliable seed suppliers.
We explore various seed sterilization methods, including acid scarification and hot water treatment, highlighting how these techniques not only ensure cleanliness but also aid in seed germination. Discover the role of ethanol and more advanced technologies such as plasma and UV light treatments in promoting seed health. With a humorous nod to spelling debates, this episode is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to optimize their hydroponic growing practices.
 
https://eutrema.co.uk/