Hydroponics Daily

Hydroponic Mushrooms? Inside the World of Liquid Mycelium

Dr. Russell Sharp investigates whether mushrooms can be grown without soil—covering liquid mycelium cultures, industrial mycelium bioreactors, and the limits of inert hydroponic media like rockwool. He explains that mycelium can be expanded in nutrient broths, but most mushrooms still need a solid organic substrate (straw, sawdust, or coffee grounds) to form fruiting bodies.
The episode also discusses pests (fungus gnats), contamination risks, practical starter options (oyster mushrooms on pasteurized straw), and emerging applications for liquid-grown mycelium such as alternative proteins and flavourings.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Wetting Agents in Hydroponics

Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down the three main types of surfactants (anionic, cationic, non‑ionic), how they’re used to re-wet hydrophobic grow media, and their roles as adjuvants and insecticidal soaps. He warns against sodium-based products like sodium lauryl sulfate and recommends sodium-free alternatives, highlighting Eutrema’s clay drainer, yucca extract, and non-sodium insecticidal soap.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/biostimulants/yucca-extract/
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/eutrema-insecticidal-soap-sodium-free/
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/clay-drainer/

Inside Growy: A Robot-Run Vertical Farm Tour in Amsterdam

Dr. Russell Sharp tours Growy’s Amsterdam vertical farm, exploring their unique fermented starch acetate growing media, automated gutter system with robots for seeding, irrigation and harvest, and energy‑efficient features like water‑cooled LEDs and heat recovery.
The episode covers production figures (60 kg/m²/yr lettuce, 40 herbs, 35 microgreens), long shelf life, supply‑chain integration, crop challenges (spinach and basil), global expansion plans, and potential future mushroom projects.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Hydroponics vs. Field Farming: The Real Reasons Supermarkets May Switch

Dr. Russell Sharp contrasts outdoor soil-grown vegetables with hydroponic indoor production, focusing on labour differences, pest pressures, and contamination risks.
He explains how the withdrawal of neonicotinoids and rising insect issues in Europe make hydroponics advantageous for pest control and cleaner produce, potentially influencing supermarket sourcing and consumer expectations.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Roof Irises: The Perfect Ornamental for Hydroponics

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses the potential of ornamental hydroponics and spotlights Iris tectorum (the roof iris) as an ideal species for indoor soilless cultivation due to its tolerance of low nutrients, stress, and inert media.
The episode covers the plant’s historical roof cultivation in Asia and Europe, its bioactive compounds of pharmaceutical interest, and practical ideas like using reed thatch as a growing medium, urging growers to explore ornamentals as a niche in hydroponics.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Cardboard, Hemp & Sawdust: Unconventional Microgreens Media Trial

Dr. Russell Sharp tests unconventional, nutrient-free grow media for microgreens—hemp and microgreens matting, cardboard and coarse sawdust—comparing results for chia and onion in a hydroponic setup.
The episode covers the trial design, potential issues (mould, decomposition, nutrient deficiencies, wood toxins) and invites listener feedback as the team observes outcomes.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Gavita Management Buyout: Hydroponics Shake‑Up After Miracle‑Gro Split

This episode reports Gavita’s management buyout following Miracle‑Gro/Hawthorne’s divestment of its hydroponics businesses and what that could mean for the industry.
Also included: a production update from Eutrema on a solvent‑free, highly concentrated 12.5% indole‑butyric acid auxin solution, chitosan biofungicide shipments, and planned jasmonic acid products, with trial samples available.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Auxin Solutions/gels - Do you know how to use them?

Dr. Russell Sharp records a short episode to ask listeners to take a quick Instagram poll about what they know regarding auxin sprays, gels, and solutions.
He teases upcoming episodes with deeper explanations of auxin uses and more insights from the congress, including a look at what a "gigafarm" is.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/lime-sulphur/

Why 'Hydroponic' Doesn't Sell: Lessons from Growy

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/Dr. Russell Sharp reports from the World Congress for Vertical Farming after visiting Growy. He focuses on labeling, packaging, shelf life, and why customers prioritize "pesticide-free" and "no need to wash" over the word "hydroponic."
The episode also explores supermarket placement, packaging visibility, and how distribution and branding often matter more than technology when it comes to market success.
 

Stereo Microscopes - See Your Plants Like Never Before

Dr. Russell Sharp explains practical ways to inspect hydroponic plants up close, from inexpensive hand lenses and phone macro attachments to investing in a stereomicroscope. He contrasts stereomicroscopes with compound microscopes and shares buying tips like LED illumination, stable stands, and camera attachments.
The episode covers how to spot pests and disease early, examine trichomes and flowers, check beneficial nematodes under a compound microscope, and use microscopes for documentation and customer engagement. Practical tips include starting at low magnification, keeping samples flat, and watching tutorials before use.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/equipment/hand-lens-uv-led-illuminated/