Hydroponics Daily

Dr. Russell Sharp of Eutrema shares practical advice for anyone launching a hydroponic product, covering market realities, product differentiation, and regulatory pitfalls. Key takeaways: the UK market is quiet, focus on unique solutions, be prepared to say no, manage marketing spend, understand regulations, protect your business by bootstrapping, and treat grow shop owners as vital partners. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Hello and welcome back to Hydroponics Daily. Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down the new UK fertiliser and biostimulant consultation that could force costly registrations, third‑party efficacy testing and ingredient disclosure, risking many small brands and shrinking product ranges. He explains the likely impact on hydroponics, lawn care and agriculture, why larger multinationals may benefit, how Utrema expects to cope, and urges listeners to respond to the consultation. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp explores how breeders, genetic tools (including CRISPR) and environmental controls in hydroponics can reduce strong or bitter flavours in vegetables. He highlights examples—low‑sulphur Brussels sprouts and onions, milder marrows/zucchini, soap‑free coriander, low‑oxalate spinach, less‑phenolic eggplant and sweeter lettuce—and points to hydroponic fertilizer strategies and business opportunities for growers and breeders. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/ Christoph Matthes — Kultursaat e.V. Nigel Kingston — Syngenta Seeds Kevin Dudley — Cloughjordan Community Farm Pat Malone — Cloughjordan Community Farm Alfred Breed (Senior) — Mertoun Gardens David Cain — International Fruit Genetics (IFG) Rob Johnston Jr. — Johnny’s Selected Seeds V. Ognev — Agrofirm Poisk N. Geraskina — Agrofirm Poisk Frits Herlaar — Rijk Zwaan Hoza Zaden — Hoza Zaden Allium Seeds UK — Allium Seeds UK Bejo Zaden — Bejo De Groot en Slot — De Groot en Slot Nunhems — BASF Vegetable Seeds Seminis — Bayer Crop Science Syngenta Vegetable Seeds — Syngenta Rijk Zwaan — Rijk Zwaan Enza Zaden — Enza Zaden Sakata Seed Corporation — Sakata Takii & Co. — Takii Tokita Seed — Tokita Seed Hazera — Limagrain HM.CLAUSE — Limagrain Vilmorin-Mikado — Limagrain Clause Tezier — Limagrain Gautier Semences — Gautier Semences Tozer Seeds — Tozer Seeds Pop Vriend Seeds — Pop Vriend Seeds KWS Vegetables — KWS SAAT SE East-West Seed — East-West Seed Known-You Seed — Known-You Seed Advanta Seeds — UPL Namdhari Seeds — Namdhari Seeds Mahyco Vegetable Seeds — Mahyco Nippon Norin Seed — Nippon Norin Seed Co. Mikado Kyowa Seed — Mikado Kyowa Seed Kaneko Seeds — Kaneko Seeds NongWoo Bio — NongWoo Bio Asia Seed — Asia Seed Co., Ltd. Dongbu Farm Hannong Seed — Nongwoo Bio Group Sakata Korea — Sakata Seed Corporation Sakata EMEA — Sakata Seed Corporation Sakata Vegetables Europe — Sakata Seed Corporation Enza Zaden Research — Enza Zaden Rijk Zwaan Research — Rijk Zwaan Bejo Research — Bejo Syngenta Seeds Research — Syngenta Takii Europe — Takii Takii Japan — Takii Hazera Netherlands — Limagrain Vilmorin SA — Limagrain HM.CLAUSE USA — Limagrain Clause (France) — Limagrain Groupe Florimond Desprez — Florimond Desprez Nickerson-Zwaan — Limagrain Hollar Seeds — Hollar Seeds American Takii — Takii PanAmerican Seed — Ball Horticultural Company Ball Seed Vegetable Program — Ball Horticultural Company Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds — Rare Seeds (Baker Creek) W. Atlee Burpee — Burpee Park Seed — Park Seed Harris Seeds — Harris Seeds Seedway — Seedway Territorial Seed Company — Territorial Seed High Mowing Organic Seeds — High Mowing Organic Seeds Vitalis Organic Seeds — Enza Zaden Bingenheimer Saatgut — Bingenheimer Saatgut AG Sativa Rheinau — Sativa Rheinau AG Reimer Seeds — Reimer Seeds Ferry-Morse — Central Garden & Pet Botanical Interests — Epic Gardening Seeds of Change — Seeds of Change Thompson & Morgan — Thompson & Morgan Mr Fothergill’s — Mr Fothergill’s Seeds Kings Seeds — Kings Seeds Suttons Seeds — Suttons Seeds Dobies — Dobies D.T. Brown — D.T. Brown Eden Brothers — Eden Brothers Johnny’s Selected Seeds — Johnny’s Selected Seeds Adaptive Seeds — Adaptive Seeds Real Seeds — The Real Seed Company Franchi Sementi — Franchi Sementi Semenzaio Artigianale Italiano — SAIS S.p.A. CN Seeds — CN Seeds Unwins — Unwins Seeds Maraldi Sementi — Maraldi Sementi Semo (Czech Republic) — SEMO a.s. MoravoSeed — MoravoSeed Vesco Seeds — VESCO Seeds Beidahuang Seed — Beidahuang Group Winall Seed — Winall Hi-Tech Seed Yuan Longping High-Tech — Longping High-Tech China National Seed Group — China National Seed Group (CNSGC) Bayer Vegetable Seeds — Bayer Crop Science BASF Vegetable Seeds — BASF Limagrain Vegetable Seeds — Limagrain KWS Saat — KWS SAAT SE Enza Zaden USA — Enza Zaden Rijk Zwaan USA — Rijk Zwaan

Dr. Russell Sharp closes out Hydroponics Daily’s 2025 run with a compact guide to the most toxic plants. He explains why “natural” or “plant‑derived” doesn’t mean safe and shares examples of species that can cause severe harm. The episode lists the top poisonous plants to watch for, such as hemlock, giant hogweed, deadly nightshade, Brugmansia, monk’s hood, yew, oleander, castor bean, water hemlock and foxglove, plus practical safety warnings for growers and gardeners. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Tony Knight — Colorado State University Richard Walter — Colorado State University James Pfister — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Bryan Stegelmeier — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Michael Ralphs — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Dale Gardner — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Kip Panter — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Benedict Green — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Kermit Price — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Clinton Stonecipher — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Kevin D. Welch — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Daniel Cook — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Scott Larsen — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Jennifer Colvin — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Tracy McCluskey — USDA-ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory Lynn James — USDA-ARS Stephen B. Lee — USDA-ARS Derek Bailey — USDA-ARS Michael H. Smith — USDA-ARS Daniel R. Gardner — USDA-ARS Elizabeth A. Dauncey — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Nicola Bates — Veterinary Poisons Information Service Sally Bradberry — National Poisons Information Service Simon Thomas — National Poisons Information Service Allister Vale — National Poisons Information Service Michael J. Balick — New York Botanical Garden Lewis S. Nelson — Rutgers New Jersey Medical School Richard D. Shih — Weill Cornell Medicine Noah Whiteman — University of California, Berkeley Sonny Larsson — Uppsala University Sarah Lister — ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Ahna Brutlag — Pet Poison Helpline Justine Lee — Pet Poison Helpline Tina Wismer — ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Steven Hansen — Pet Poison Helpline Timothy J. Evans — University of Illinois Rebecca H. McClanahan — University of California, Davis Philippa A. Smith — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Eimear M. Nic Lughadha — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew William Milliken — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Edward P. Krenzelok — Pittsburgh Poison Center Robert S. Hoffman — NYU Grossman School of Medicine William Banner — Oklahoma Center for Poison & Drug Information Paul M. Wax — UT Southwestern Medical Center Henry A. Spiller — Kentucky Poison Control Center Mary Ann McGregor — Texas Poison Center Network Kurt A. Kleinschmidt — Texas Poison Center Network Donna L. Seger — Tennessee Poison Center Christine Murphy — National Capital Poison Center Gwen Wurm — Oregon Poison Center David Trinklein — University of Missouri Extension Karen Funkenbusch — University of Missouri Extension Ralph Whitesides — Utah State University Extension Corey Ransom — Utah State University Bret A. Scasta — University of Wyoming Keith Johnson — Purdue University Extension Debra Hagstrom — University of Illinois Extension Tom Dudek — University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Maryline Seigler — University of Florida Stephen L. Welsh — Brigham Young University Craig A. Schmutz — University of Saskatchewan David W. Hulbert — University of Queensland Caroline Veresoglou — Freie Universität Berlin Daniel J. Kliebenstein — University of California, Davis Mark A. D. Goodwin — University of Georgia James A. Duke — USDA Julia F. Morton — University of Miami Lawrence Kaplan — University of Massachusetts Boston Peter A. Cock — Australia (Plant Toxins Research) Robyn M. Gleadow — Monash University Ian E. Cock — RMIT University Philippa M. Forrester — University of Sydney Mary T. Fletcher — The University of Queensland Robert J. Petroski — University of Queensland John M. Coleman — CSIRO Ralph D. Tanner — CSIRO Andrew W. Poulsen — CSIRO John A. Sutherland — University of Adelaide Peter J. McGee — University of New England Bryan G. Fry — The University of Queensland Alan L. Hart — University of Oxford Mark W. Gurnell — University of Cambridge David J. Watson — University of Tasmania Ian D. Rae — Monash University John M. Jacobsen — Montana State University Wendy C. Weedon — University of Florida Karin L. Wieringa — Wageningen University & Research Rohan A. Davis — The University of Queensland Vicki A. L. Mellick — University of New South Wales Paul G. Jones — University of Reading Nigel J. C. Veitch — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Monica F. M. Gruber — University of Bristol Anne Osbourn — John Innes Centre Michael Heinrich — UCL School of Pharmacy Christine A. Smart — Cornell University  

Host Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explains how hydroponic fertigation and his product Gold Leaf (Liquid Gold in the UK) can be used to biofortify edible crops with nutrients like iodine, selenium, iron, zinc and silicon. The episode covers practical benefits, higher micronutrient content, potential shelf-life and quality improvements, and serious cautions, especially selenium toxicity, stressing professional handling and precise dosing. Listeners learn why hydroponics makes targeted nutrient enrichment easier than soil, which crops have been shown to respond (lettuce, basil), and how biofortification might impact human nutrition and future dietary needs. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Howarth E. Bouis — International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) / HarvestPlus Amy Saltzman — HarvestPlus Wolfgang H. Pfeiffer — HarvestPlus / CGIAR J.V. Meenakshi — IFPRI Ekin Birol — IFPRI / HarvestPlus Edward A. Boy — HarvestPlus Dean A. Boy — HarvestPlus Daniel Asare-Marfo — IFPRI / HarvestPlus Erick Boy — HarvestPlus Jan W. Low — International Potato Center (CIP) Robert O.M. Mwanga — International Potato Center (CIP) Maria I. Andrade — International Potato Center (CIP) Hugo Campos — International Potato Center (CIP) Graham Thiele — International Potato Center (CIP) Marcin G. Wirth — ETH Zürich Ines Slamet-Loedin — International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) B.P. Mallikarjuna Swamy — International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) Rainer Schulin — ETH Zürich Roslyn B. Gleadow — Monash University Christine H. Foyer — University of Birmingham Ismail Cakmak — Sabanci University Güzel Velu — CIMMYT Iván Ortiz-Monasterio — CIMMYT R.P. (Ravi) Singh — CIMMYT Velu Govindan — CIMMYT Yuri (Y.) Hao — CIMMYT Manish Roorkiwal — ICRISAT Rajeev K. Varshney — CSIRO / formerly ICRISAT Hari D. Upadhyaya — ICRISAT Rajeev Gupta — CSIRO Michael J. Welch — Cornell University Ross M. Welch — Cornell University Robin D. Graham — University of Adelaide Richard D. Thompson — ETH Zürich Philip J. White — The James Hutton Institute Martin R. Broadley — University of Nottingham Steven P. McGrath — Rothamsted Research Andy R. Smith — University of Cambridge Cathie Martin — John Innes Centre Lionel J. Dupont — INRAE Victor Raboy — USDA-ARS Paul M. Hasegawa — Purdue University Jian-Kang Zhu — Purdue University David E. Salt — University of Nottingham Nicolaus von Wirén — Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK) Ute Krämer — Ruhr University Bochum Hakan Wallin — Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) M.S. (Mike) Griffiths — University of York Elad Tako — Cornell University Julia F. Kotzé — University of Pretoria Richard P. Glahn — USDA-ARS Raymond P. Glahn — USDA-ARS James P. Li — University of Minnesota Tom L. Sleper — University of Missouri Dean DellaPenna — Michigan State University Robert A. McClung — Carnegie Mellon University Peter Beyer — University of Freiburg Ingo Potrykus — ETH Zürich Paola Carillo — University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli” Roberto Papa — Marche Polytechnic University Cristóbal Uauy — John Innes Centre Nigel G. Halford — Rothamsted Research Peter R. Shewry — Rothamsted Research Alison J. Smith — University of Cambridge Catherine J. Dixon — University of Leeds Darren J. Plett — CSIRO Agriculture and Food Mark Tester — University of Adelaide Jana K. Scharfenberg — University of Hohenheim Ivan Baxter — Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Brian Larkins — University of Arizona Torbert Rocheford — Purdue University Regina A. Feil — University of Bonn Karl-Josef Dietz — Bielefeld University Hans-Peter Braun — Leibniz University Hannover Elizabeth A. Ainsworth — USDA-ARS / University of Illinois Donald R. Ort — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Krishna K. Niyogi — University of California, Berkeley Sabeeha S. Merchant — University of California, Berkeley Joanna Barłóg — Poznań University of Life Sciences Mariola K. Kozak — Warsaw University of Life Sciences Ramesh V. Sunkar — Oklahoma State University Amitava Roy — Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) K.V. Prasad — Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) K.C. Bansal — National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) Usha Kiran — NABI Ramesh Chand — Banaras Hindu University A.K. Singh — Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR) A. Raman — Punjab Agricultural University B.S. Gill — Texas A&M University Ravi Singh — CIMMYT Mahmoud S. Hussein — University of Guelph Youbin Zheng — University of Guelph Rowan F. Sage — University of Toronto Bernard R. Glick — University of Waterloo Leon V. Kochian — Cornell University Jason P. Wallace — University of Georgia Maria C. Gelli — University of Florida Adam J. Boggs — University of California, Davis James V. Anderson — USDA-ARS Bruce Bugbee — Utah State University

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how to choose and use microbial biostimulants for hydroponics, focusing on production/expiry dates, manufacturer credibility, and the trade-offs between liquid and powder formulations. He recommends trusted suppliers (Legume Technology, Omex/Biomex, Symbiom, Koppert's Trianum P), suggests starting with Bacillus blends and Trichoderma, and advises using seaweed extracts, humic acids and mild fertilizers to feed, not kill, microbes. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Ben Lugtenberg — Leiden University Jos M. Raaijmakers — Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) Corné M. J. Pieterse — Utrecht University Paola Bonfante — University of Turin Ian R. Sanders — University of Lausanne Toby Kiers — Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam Uta Paszkowski — University of Cambridge Marcel G. A. van der Heijden — Agroscope Jan Jansa — Agroscope Marc-André Selosse — Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle (Paris) Francis Martin — INRAE (France) Jonathan D. Leake — University of Sheffield David J. Read — University of Sheffield Katie J. Field — University of Sheffield David Johnson — University of Aberdeen Mark Brundrett — University of Western Australia Sally E. Smith — University of Adelaide Suzanne Simard — University of British Columbia Nancy C. Johnson — Northern Arizona University Matthias C. Rillig — Freie Universität Berlin Katharine A. Horton — University of Canterbury Michael J. Ryan — University of Sydney Caroline P. P. N. “Caro” Veresoglou — Freie Universität Berlin Tim Daniell — The James Hutton Institute David E. Crowley — University of California, Riverside Egbert Schwartz — University of Arizona Sharon L. Doty — University of Washington Fitri A. Widiastuti — Bogor Agricultural University Bernard R. Glick — University of Waterloo Everlon C. Rigobelo — São Paulo State University (UNESP) Harsh P. Bais — University of Delaware Indranil Mukherjee — Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) Dilfuza Egamberdieva — Leibniz Institute of Vegetable and Ornamental Crops (IGZ) Naveen K. Arora — Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University Rainer Borriss — Humboldt University of Berlin Blanca B. Landa — Institute for Sustainable Agriculture (CSIC, Spain) Philippe Lemanceau — INRAE Christophe Prigent-Combaret — Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 Sonia Compant — AIT Austrian Institute of Technology Kornelia Smalla — Julius Kühn-Institut Angela Sessitsch — AIT Austrian Institute of Technology Gustavo Santoyo — Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo Roberto Kolter — Harvard Medical School Jeffrey L. Dangl — University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Paul Schulze-Lefert — Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research Marcel Dicke — Wageningen University & Research Wietse de Boer — Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) Linda Thomashow — USDA-ARS (Pullman) David M. Weller — USDA-ARS (Pullman) Cheryl B. Anderton — Washington State University Gary E. Harman — Cornell University Matteo Lorito — University of Naples Federico II Sheridan L. Woo — University of Naples Federico II Christian P. Kubicek — TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) Irina S. Druzhinina — TU Wien (Vienna University of Technology) Enrique Monte — University of Salamanca Charles M. Kenerley — Texas A&M University Sam E. Gryzenhout — University of the Free State László Kredics — University of Szeged Gábor Szakács — Budapest University of Technology and Economics B. A. Horwitz — Weizmann Institute of Science Alfredo Herrera-Estrella — LANGEBIO (CINVESTAV, Mexico) Alfredo Herrera-Estrella (Plant–microbe) — Irapuato Unit, CINVESTAV Antonietta “Tetta” Vinale — University of Naples Federico II Massimo Zaccardelli — CREA (Italy) Francesco S. “F.” Camera — University of Padua Antonio Di Pietro — University of Córdoba Fernando C. “F.” López-Bucio — Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolás de Hidalgo Pedro A. H. M. Bakker — Utrecht University Jasper F. van der Putten — Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) Giles E. D. Oldroyd — University of Cambridge Maria J. Harrison — Boyce Thompson Institute Jean-Michel Ané — University of Wisconsin–Madison Carla M. “C.” R. Carvalho — University of São Paulo Paola Angelini — University of Perugia Andrea Genre — University of Turin Guillaume Béguiristain — INRAE Marc-Henri Lebrun — INRAE José M. “J.” Alvarez — University of Granada Paola Grenni — Water Research Institute (CNR, Italy) Anissa Poleatewich — Mycorrhizal Applications (Plant Health Care) Martin Trépanier — Premier Tech Maya Dayan — DYNOMYCO Moran Topf — DYNOMYCO Inge Hanssen — DCM (Group De Ceuster) Rob Cannings — Plant Health Care Pam Marrone — Marrone Bio Innovations Mark A. Sadowsky — University of Minnesota James M. Tiedje — Michigan State University Jo Handelsman — University of Wisconsin–Madison Patrick A. H. M. Bakker — Utrecht University Brajesh K. Singh — Western Sydney University Umer Chaudhry — CSIRO Agriculture and Food Rana Munns — CSIRO Agriculture and Food Michael R. McNear Jr. — University of Delaware Louise E. Egerton-Warburton — California State University, San Bernardino Thomas R. Horton — SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Katharine A. “K.” Treseder — University of California, Irvine John D. Bever — University of Kansas Gregory P. Cheatham — University of Georgia

Dr. Russell Sharp explores research showing that squashes, pumpkins and other cucurbits can absorb persistent hydrophobic pollutants (PCBs, dioxin-like compounds, organochlorine pesticides and furans) because a specific plant protein binds these chemicals and transports them into the fruit. The episode covers the health and food-safety implications, the potential to breed low-accumulating varieties or use phytoremediation, and why growing these crops hydroponically is a safer alternative to avoid soil-borne, long-lasting pesticides. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Todd C. Wehner — North Carolina State University Warren Barham Henderson — North Carolina State University Sam Jenkins — North Carolina State University Chris Hernandez — University of New Hampshire A. F. Yeager — University of New Hampshire Elwyn Meader — University of New Hampshire J. Brent Loy — University of New Hampshire Cecilia E. McGregor — University of Georgia Pamela D. Roberts — University of Florida Rebecca Grumet — Michigan State University Zhangjun Fei — Boyce Thompson Institute Yiqun Weng — USDA-ARS Vegetable Crops Research Unit (Madison, WI) Jim Myers — Oregon State University Chuck Bornt — Cornell Cooperative Extension Margaret Tuttle McGrath — Cornell University Michael Mazourek — Cornell University Jocelyn (Joss) Rose — Cornell University Neil Mattson — Cornell University Alan G. Taylor — Cornell University Elizabeth Maynard — Purdue University Rosie Lerner — Purdue University Katie Parker — University of Illinois Extension Bruce Bugbee — Utah State University Mark Brand — University of Connecticut Gerald Berkowitz — University of Connecticut Vance Whitaker — University of Florida Craig Schluttenhofer — Central State University Dan Putnam — University of California, Davis Brad Hanson — University of California, Davis Rebecca Sideman — University of New Hampshire Louise Russell — The James Hutton Institute David Simpson — NIAB EMR Howard Griffiths — University of Cambridge Tracy Lawson — University of Essex Erik H. Murchie — University of Nottingham Malcolm Hawkesford — Rothamsted Research Yiguo Hong — University of Worcester Owen Atkin — Australian National University Susanne von Caemmerer — Australian National University Graham Farquhar — Australian National University Rana Munns — CSIRO Robert D. Furbank — CSIRO Noel Cogan — Agriculture Victoria Research German Spangenberg — Agriculture Victoria Research Simone Rochfort — Agriculture Victoria Research Mathew A. Gilliham — University of Adelaide Peter Langridge — University of Adelaide Ute Roessner — University of Melbourne Mark Lefsrud — McGill University Adam Dale — University of Guelph Rowan F. Sage — University of Toronto Andrew Jamieson — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Kentville) Hugh Daubeny — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Summerland) Kim Lewers — USDA-ARS James Luby — University of Minnesota John R. Clark — University of Arkansas Patrick Conner — University of Georgia David Suchoff — North Carolina State University Jason Griffin — Kansas State University Zelalem Mersha — Virginia State University

Dr. Russell Sharp reviews Hydroponics Daily in 2025, highlighting the top podcast episodes, surprising listener interests (pH, nutrient lockup, microgreens), event highlights, product plans, and both wins and challenges from the year. He also covers industry news, unusual stories like illegal grows, predictions for 2026, and plans to shift the podcast format while continuing to support growers and new products. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Larry Smart — Cornell University Virginia Moore — Cornell University Christine Smart — Cornell University Alan Taylor — Cornell University (Jocelyn) Joss Rose — Cornell University Glenn Philippe — Cornell University Neil Mattson — Cornell University Nick Kaczmar — Cornell University Lynn Sosnoskie — Cornell University Yu Jiang — Cornell University Chang Chen — Cornell University Alireza (Ali) Abbaspourrad — Cornell University Bruno Xavier — Cornell University Roger Morse — Cornell University Olga Padilla-Zakour — Cornell University Gerald Berkowitz — University of Connecticut Mark Brand — University of Connecticut Bruce Bugbee — Utah State University Jose Franco Da Cunha Leme Filho — Southern Illinois University Carbondale Carla Garzon — Delaware Valley University Youbin Zheng — University of Guelph Marco Todesco — University of British Columbia Dan Putnam — University of California, Davis Robert B. Hutmacher — University of California, Davis Charlie Brummer — University of California, Davis Daniel Pap — University of California, Davis Brad Hanson — University of California, Davis Sara Light — University of California, Davis Maya Hotz — University of California, Davis Kadie Britt — University of California, Riverside Mahboubeh Dehnavi — University of California, Davis Nicole Gauthier — University of Kentucky Bob Pearce — University of Kentucky Raul Villanueva — University of Kentucky Whitney Cranshaw — Colorado State University Ismail Dweikat — University of Nebraska–Lincoln Timothy Coolong — University of Georgia David Suchoff — North Carolina State University Jason Griffin — Kansas State University Mitchell Dale Richmond — University of Tennessee Zelalem Mersha — Virginia State University Shilpi Chawla — Virginia State University Elizabeth Geyer — Virginia State University Ramesh Dhakal — Virginia State University Shuxin Ren — Virginia State University Rufus Akinrinlola — University of Tennessee Zachariah Hansen — University of Tennessee Alyssa Collins — Penn State Extension Raul Cabrera — Rutgers University Tom Gianfagna — Rutgers University John McLaughlin — Rutgers University Jim Simon — Rutgers University Andrew Wyenandt — Rutgers University Noel Cogan — Agriculture Victoria Research Aaron Elkins — Agriculture Victoria Research German Spangenberg — Agriculture Victoria Research Simone Rochfort — Agriculture Victoria Research Ashley Isbel — Agriculture Victoria Research Vilnis Ezernieks — Agriculture Victoria Research Antony (Tony) Bacic — La Trobe University Mathew G. Lewsey — La Trobe University Peter Duggan — CSIRO Stuart Gordon — CSIRO Andrew Fuller — Bridge Farm Bioscience Ray Marriott — Bridge Farm Bioscience Craig Schluttenhofer — Central State University Mark Lefsrud — McGill University Nitin Mantri — RMIT University

Dr. Russell Sharp examines the effects of coffee and tea on plants, explaining how caffeine and other compounds (tannins, organic acids, sugars) can act as low-dose biostimulants but become inhibitory or toxic at higher doses. He covers root drench vs foliar applications, allelopathy, impacts on microbes and pests, and how repeated use can harm photosynthesis, nutrient uptake and root health. Practical takeaways: occasional small amounts may help rooting, but regularly pouring leftover caffeinated drinks on houseplants can cause overwatering, chemical stress, microbial shifts and long-term damage—so avoid routine use and be cautious if trying coffee grounds as pest deterrents. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Joanne Chory — Salk Institute (USA) Mark Estelle — University of California San Diego (USA) Steve Kay — University of Southern California (USA) Krishna K. Niyogi — University of California Berkeley (USA) Bob B. Buchanan — University of California Berkeley (USA) Chris R. Somerville — University of California Berkeley (USA) Julin N. Maloof — University of California Davis (USA) Pamela A. Ronald — University of California Davis (USA) Daniel J. Kliebenstein — University of California Davis (USA) Justin O. Borevitz — University of California Berkeley (USA) Natasha Raikhel — University of California Riverside (USA) Julia Bailey-Serres — University of California Riverside (USA) Siobhan Brady — University of California Davis (USA) Michael F. Thomashow — Michigan State University (USA) Sheng Yang He — Michigan State University (USA) Brad Day — Michigan State University (USA) Federica Brandizzi — Michigan State University (USA) Jian-Kang Zhu — Purdue University (USA) Scott Poethig — University of Pennsylvania (USA) Zhenbiao Yang — University of California Riverside (USA) Dominique Bergmann — Stanford University (USA) Sharon R. Long — Stanford University (USA) Wolf B. Frommer — Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (USA) Martin Yanofsky — University of California San Diego (USA) Joseph R. Ecker — Salk Institute (USA) Detlef Weigel — Max Planck Institute for Biology Tübingen (USA) Xuelin Wu — University of Maryland (USA) Kent D. Chapman — University of North Texas (USA) Donald R. Ort — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (USA) Stephen P. Long — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (USA) Elizabeth A. Ainsworth — USDA-ARS (USA) Rebecca Bart — Donald Danforth Plant Science Center (USA) Blake C. Meyers — Donald Danforth Plant Science Center (USA) Jim Giovannoni — Cornell University (USA) Tom Brutnell — Cornell University (USA) Christine Foyer — University of Birmingham (UK) Philip Poole — University of Oxford (UK) Andrew Fleming — University of Sheffield (UK) Alistair M. Hetherington — University of Bristol (UK) Carolin Müller — University of Freiburg (UK) Ian Graham — University of York (UK) Philip Mullineaux — University of Essex (UK) John P. Carr — University of Cambridge (UK) Cathie Martin — John Innes Centre (UK) Pernille Brodersen — University of Exeter (UK) Jill Harrison — University of Bristol (UK) Ottoline Leyser — University of Cambridge (UK) Jim Haseloff — University of Cambridge (UK) Dale Sanders — John Innes Centre (UK) R. George Ratcliffe — University of Oxford (UK) Charles Godfray — University of Oxford (UK) Liam Dolan — University of Oxford (UK) James U. U. (Jim) Whelan — University of Western Australia (Australia) Barry J. Pogson — Australian National University (Australia) Owen Atkin — Australian National University (Australia) Susanne von Caemmerer — Australian National University (Australia) Graham Farquhar — Australian National University (Australia) Sally Aitken — University of British Columbia (Canada) Carl J. Douglas — University of British Columbia (Canada) Justin P. K. L. (Justin) Borevitz — Australian National University (Australia) Marilyn Ball — Australian National University (Australia) Rana Munns — CSIRO (Australia) Mark Tester — King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (Australia) James Whelan — La Trobe University (Australia) Jeremy Timmis — University of Adelaide (Australia) Peter Langridge — University of Adelaide (Australia) Mathew A. Gilliham — University of Adelaide (Australia) Ute Roessner — University of Melbourne (Australia) Robert D. Furbank — CSIRO (Australia) David J. Beerling — University of Sheffield (UK) Howard Griffiths — University of Cambridge (UK) Rowan F. Sage — University of Toronto (Canada) Lewis Ziska — Columbia University (USA) Lisa A. Donovan — University of Georgia (USA) Robert A. Bressan — Purdue University (USA) Erik H. Murchie — University of Nottingham (UK) Tracy Lawson — University of Essex (UK) Steven M. Driever — University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (USA) Yunde Zhao — University of California San Diego (USA) Keiko Torii — University of Washington (USA) Jen Sheen — Harvard Medical School (USA) Xing Wang Deng — Yale University (USA) Bonnie Bartel — Rice University (USA) Jianhua Zhu — University of Maryland (USA) José R. Dinneny — Stanford University (USA) David W. Ehrhardt — Carnegie Institution for Science (USA) Sabeeha S. Merchant — University of California Berkeley (USA) Susan S. Golden — University of California San Diego (USA) Shauna Somerville — University of California Berkeley (USA) Dolf Weijers — Wageningen University (UK) Anne Osbourn — John Innes Centre (UK) Mike Roberts — Lancaster University (UK) Robyn M. Gleadow — Monash University (Australia) Brett Neilan — University of New South Wales (Australia) Justin O’Sullivan — University of Auckland (New Zealand) Richard Macknight — University of Otago (New Zealand) Malcolm Hawkesford — Rothamsted Research (UK) Marcel Salathé — University of British Columbia (Canada) Stéphane Rolland — McGill University (Canada) Owen K. Atkin — Australian National University (Australia)

Dr. Russell Sharp explores the story behind cotton candy grapes, explaining how they were created through patient, traditional plant breeding rather than artificial flavouring or genetic modification. He describes the selection process, the natural flavour compounds involved, and the decade-long effort by breeders to bring this unique-tasting fruit to market. The episode also looks at research into breeding strawberries and other fruits for distinctive flavours, the role of modern genomic tools in speeding selection, and how these novel varieties could intersect with hydroponic and vertical farming systems. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Sun World — John Harley International Fruit Genetics — David Cain SNFL — Jean-Luc Stalon Bloom Fresh — Chris Davey ARRA — Stefano Di Michele Sheehan Genetics — David Sheehan Grapa Varieties — Luca Fini Great Growers Partnerships — Jim Beagle Vine Genetics — Paul Boss CSIRO — Anthony Borneman USDA-ARS Parlier — David Ramming USDA-ARS Geneva — Bruce Reisch Cornell Grapes — Bruce Reisch UC Davis Viticulture & Enology — Andy Walker UC Riverside Grapes — Pat Brown Washington State University Grapes — Markus Keller Oregon State University Grapes — Patty Skinkis Michigan State University Grapes — Paolo Sabbatini University of Minnesota Fruit Breeding — James Luby University of Arkansas Grapes — John Clark University of Georgia Grapes — Patrick Conner Texas A&M Viticulture — Lorenzo Rossi North Carolina State Muscadine Breeding — Renee Threlfall Florida A&M Grape Breeding — Jeff Wasielewski Florida UF/IFAS Grapes — Peter Cousins Agroscope Grapevine Breeding — Andreas Hund INRAE Grapevine Breeding — Patrice This IFV — Thierry Lacombe University of Bordeaux Vine & Wine — Eric Boissenot UTAD — Henrique Ribeiro Instituto Superior de Agronomia — Antero Martins CREA Viticulture — Stefano Poni Fondazione Edmund Mach — Marco Stefanini Geilweilerhof — Reinhard Töpfer Hochschule Geisenheim — Hans Reiner Schultz Wädenswil Viticulture — Jürg Linde University of Milan Viticulture — Attilio Scienza University of Turin Viticulture — Anna Schneider University of Adelaide Viticulture — Paul Dry AWRI — Rob Walker University of Stellenbosch Viticulture — Gert Nieuwoudt ARC Infruitec-Nietvoorbij — Danie Myburgh Volcani Center Grapevine — Eyal Tanne INIAV — Antero Martins Embrapa Uva e Vinho — Murillo de Albuquerque Regina INTA — Walter Biasi Universidad Nacional de Cuyo Viticulture — Laura Catena Catena Institute of Wine — Alejandro Vigil University of Chile Viticulture — Patricio Hinrichsen Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile Viticulture — José Bordeu Driscoll’s — Steve Nelson Plant Sciences — Doug Shaw Berry Genetics — Kirk Larson Lassen Canyon Nursery — Patrick Phillips California Berry Cultivars — Doug Shaw USDA-ARS Strawberry Corvallis — Kim Lewers UC Davis Strawberry Breeding — Doug Shaw UC ANR — Mark Bolda UF Strawberry Breeding — Vance Whitaker University of Arkansas Strawberry Breeding — John Clark North Carolina State Strawberry Breeding — Gina Fernandez Michigan State University Strawberry Breeding — Chad Finn Cornell Strawberry Breeding — Marvin Pritts Oregon State University Strawberry Breeding — Chad Finn Washington State University Strawberry Breeding — Chuck Brun University of Minnesota Strawberry Breeding — Jim Luby University of Wisconsin Strawberry Breeding — Craig Chandler Penn State Strawberry Breeding — Marvin Pritts Rutgers Strawberry Breeding — James Polashock University of Maryland Strawberry Breeding — Chris Walsh University of Massachusetts Strawberry Breeding — Jaime Pinero University of New Hampshire Strawberry Program — Becky Sideman Agriculture Canada Kentville — Andrew Jamieson University of Guelph Berry Breeding — Adam Dale Summerland Research — Hugh Daubeny NIAB EMR — David Simpson East Malling Strawberry Breeding — David Simpson James Hutton Institute — Louise Russell Wageningen Berry Breeding — Arnaud Wybouw Skierniewice Institute of Horticulture — Agnieszka Masny IVIA — José Luis García-Baudín CSIC Berries — Pedro Martínez-Gómez INRAE Strawberry Breeding — Béatrice Denoyes CIV Strawberry Breeding — Stefano Tartarini CREA Fruit Research — Daniele Bassi Mazzoni Group — Luca Mazzoni New Fruits — Francesco Baruzzi Sant’Orsola — Renzo Zighera Fresh Forward — Geert de Weger Hansabred — Hans-Peter Hansen ABZ Seeds — Andreas Buitelaar Limgroup — Theo de Ruiter Flevo Berry — Jan van de Weg Planasa — Emilio Marin BerryWorld Varieties — Nick Marston Eurosemillas — Javier Cano Viveros California — José María López Fresas Nuevos Materiales — Antonio López-Aranda Ohalo Genetics — Nadav Cohen Embrapa Strawberry Program — Fernando Antunes

Dr. Russell Sharp exposes a growing problem of fake plant listings and AI-generated seed scams on Amazon and other marketplaces, showing how buyers are being misled by impossible varieties (like bright blue hostas) and foreign drop-shippers. He explains how to protect yourself—check seller and nursery credentials, prefer reputable nurseries or local stores—and shares a real seed mix-up story to contrast honest mistakes with deliberate fakes. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ More reputable growers and seed sellers: Burpee — W. Atlee Burpee & Co. Ferry-Morse — Ferry-Morse Seed Co. Botanical Interests — Botanical Interests, Inc. Seed Needs — Seed Needs LLC Outsidepride — Outsidepride, Inc. Eden Brothers — Eden Brothers Seed Co. Harris Seeds — Harris Seeds Park Seed — Park Seed Co. Renee’s Garden — Renee’s Garden Seed Co. Seeds of Change — Seeds of Change, Inc. High Mowing Organic Seeds — High Mowing Seed Co. Sow Right Seeds — Sow Right Seeds HOME GROWN — Homegrown Garden Open Seed Vault — Open Seed Vault Survival Garden Seeds — Survival Garden Seeds Mountain Valley Seed Company — Mountain Valley Seed Company David’s Garden Seeds — David’s Garden Seeds Everwilde Farms — Everwilde Farms, Inc. Southern Exposure Seed Exchange — Southern Exposure Seed Exchange Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds — Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Co. Territorial Seed Company — Territorial Seed Company Johnny’s Selected Seeds — Johnny’s Selected Seeds Livingston Seed — Livingston Seed Company Lake Valley Seed — Lake Valley Seed Company Seed Savers Exchange — Seed Savers Exchange Annie’s Heirloom Seeds — Annie’s Heirloom Seeds Indigo Instruments (Sprout People) — The Sprout People Handy Pantry — Handy Pantry True Leaf Market — True Leaf Market NatureZ Edge — NatureZ Edge Islas Garden Seeds — Islas Garden Seeds Organo Republic — Organo Republic Sereniseed — Sereniseed CZ Grain — CZ Grain Gardeners Basics — Gardeners Basics The Dirty Gardener — The Dirty Gardener Marde Ross & Company — Marde Ross & Company Food to Live — Food to Live NOW Foods — NOW Health Group, Inc. Frontier Co-op — Frontier Cooperative Starwest Botanicals — Starwest Botanicals, Inc. Nature Jims Sprouts — Nature Jim’s Sprouts Sproutman — Sproutman Publications Back to the Roots — Back to the Roots, Inc. Tumbleweed Plant Co. — Tumbleweed Plant Co. Costa Farms — Costa Farms, LLC Proven Winners — Proven Winners North America, LLC Altman Plants — Altman Plants LiveTrends — LiveTrends Design Group Shop Succulents — Shop Succulents Succulent Studios — Succulent Studios The Sill — The Sill, Inc. Hirt’s Gardens — Hirt’s Gardens American Plant Exchange — American Plant Exchange Plants for Pets — Plants for Pets Brighter Blooms — Brighter Blooms Nursery Perfect Plants — Perfect Plants Nursery Nature Hills Nursery — Nature Hills Nursery, Inc. Bloomify — Bloomify House Plant Shop — House Plant Shop JM Bamboo — JM Bamboo Florida Foliage — Florida Foliage Green Promise Farms — Green Promise Farms Rooted (Rooted Plants) — Rooted Easy to Grow — Easy to Grow Bulbs Van Zyverden — Van Zyverden, Inc. Holland Bulb Farms — Holland Bulb Farms Breck’s — Breck’s Colorblends — Colorblends Wholesale Flowerbulbs Eden Brothers Bulbs — Eden Brothers Gurney’s — Gurney’s Seed & Nursery Co. Stark Bro’s — Stark Bro’s Nurseries & Orchards Co. Spring Hill Nurseries — Spring Hill Nurseries Wayside Gardens — Wayside Gardens White Flower Farm — White Flower Farm Monrovia — Monrovia Nursery Company Logee’s — Logee’s Plants for Home & Garden Wellspring Gardens — Wellspring Gardens Brighter Gardens — Brighter Gardens Blue Ribbon Plants — Blue Ribbon Plants Green Escape — Green Escape Golden Gate Palms — Golden Gate Palms FastGrowingTrees.com — Fast Growing Trees, LLC Brussel’s Bonsai — Brussel’s Bonsai Nursery Eastern Leaf — Eastern Leaf, Inc. Seedville USA — Seedville USA Seeds2Go — Seeds2Go Nature’s Blossom — Nature’s Blossom Garden Republic — Garden Republic The Old Farmer’s Almanac Seed — Old Farmer’s Almanac Purely Organic Products — Purely Organic Products Nature’s Way Seeds — Nature’s Way Seeds The Clayton Farm — The Clayton Farm Ferry-Morse Home Gardening — Ferry-Morse Seed Co. Bonnie Plants — Bonnie Plants, LLC D. Hill Nursery — D. Hill Nursery Greenhouse PCA — Greenhouse PCA California Tropicals — California Tropicals Humble Roots — Humble Roots Green 4 Ever — Green 4 Ever

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how melatonin — a molecule known for human sleep and stress regulation — is produced by plants and acts as a powerful antioxidant and growth regulator. In hydroponics it can enhance root growth, improve stress tolerance under high light or unstable conditions, delay leaf senescence, and support photosynthesis and secondary metabolite production. Applied as a foliar spray, seed priming, or added to nutrient solutions at micromolar concentrations, melatonin is water-soluble and allows precise dosing in soilless systems. Research shows benefits in crops like tomato and lettuce, with increased root-to-shoot ratios and higher antioxidant levels under stress. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Rakesh K. Singh — Banaras Hindu University Nasser Al-Aghbar — King Abdulaziz University Rajeev K. Varshney — International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) Chao Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Wei Wei — Zhejiang University Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel J. Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Sergiu F. Chivu — University of Bucharest Guang-Yu Chen — Zhejiang University Xing-Guo Lu — South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences Shuang-Qing Peng — South China Agricultural University Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Wei Meng — Zhejiang University Natalia Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Chunhua Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Javier Martinez — University of Granada Ana Cano — University of Granada Russel J. Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Debabrata Chattopadhyay — Bose Institute Fanyue Meng — Zhejiang University Chao Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Bin Xu — Nanjing Agricultural University Wei Wei — Zhejiang University Maria Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Sergey Kvetnoy — Russian Academy of Sciences Jian-Kang Zhu — University of California, Riverside Chunhua Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Xiaohong Zhu — South China Botanical Garden Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Iwona Zielenkiewicz — Polish Academy of Sciences Yali Zhang — Zhejiang University Fang Fang — Nanjing Agricultural University Xinyue Wang — South China Botanical Garden Sonia Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Gonzalo Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Javier Martinez — University of Granada Ana Cano — University of Granada Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Yi Li — Zhejiang University Chunhua Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Wei Wei — Zhejiang University Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel J. Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Rajeev K. Varshney — ICRISAT Rafael Guerrero — University of Granada Juan Pablo Martínez — University of Granada Natalia Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Chunhua Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Wei Wei — Zhejiang University Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Javier Martinez — University of Granada Ana Cano — University of Granada Chao Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Fang Fang — Nanjing Agricultural University Xinyue Wang — South China Botanical Garden Maria Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Sergey Kvetnoy — Russian Academy of Sciences Jian-Kang Zhu — University of California, Riverside Fanyue Meng — Zhejiang University Guang-Yu Chen — Zhejiang University Shuang-Qing Peng — South China Agricultural University Debabrata Chattopadhyay — Bose Institute Iwona Zielenkiewicz — Polish Academy of Sciences Yali Zhang — Zhejiang University Xiaohong Zhu — South China Botanical Garden Fang Fang — Nanjing Agricultural University Yi Li — Zhejiang University Rafael Guerrero — University of Granada Juan Pablo Martínez — University of Granada Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Javier Martinez — University of Granada Ana Cano — University of Granada Natalia Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Maria Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Chao Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Wei Wei — Zhejiang University Chunhua Zhao — Nanjing Agricultural University Guang-Yu Chen — Zhejiang University Fanyue Meng — Zhejiang University Sergey Kvetnoy — Russian Academy of Sciences Jian-Kang Zhu — University of California, Riverside Debabrata Chattopadhyay — Bose Institute Iwona Zielenkiewicz — Polish Academy of Sciences Fang Fang — Nanjing Agricultural University Xinyue Wang — South China Botanical Garden Yi Li — Zhejiang University Rafael Guerrero — University of Granada Juan Pablo Martínez — University of Granada Russel Reiter — University of Texas Health Science Center Dun-Xian Tan — University of Texas Health Science Center Javier Martinez — University of Granada Ana Cano — University of Granada

Host Dr. Russell Sharp tackles a Twitter claim that hydroponic crops lack micronutrients and are artificially flavoured, explaining why those assertions are incorrect and how micronutrient levels can be measured (e.g., atomic absorption spectroscopy). He reviews research on manipulating flavor through nutrient levels, light, and biostimulants, notes the limited and mixed evidence, and concludes there is no solid proof of intentional artificial flavouring in hydroponic produce; soilless systems can match or even enhance some flavour-related compounds. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Gary Reineccius — University of Minnesota Andrew Taylor — University of Nottingham Russell Keast — Deakin University Charles Spence — University of Oxford Harrison Schmitt — Virginia Tech Morten Møller — University of Copenhagen John Hayes — Penn State University Qian Janice Wang — Aarhus University Marcia Pelchat — Monell Chemical Senses Center Barry Smith — University of London Linda Bartoshuk — University of Florida Paul Breslin — Monell Chemical Senses Center Danielle Reed — Monell Chemical Senses Center Barry Green — Monell Chemical Senses Center Thomas Hummel — Technical University of Dresden Alan Hirsch — Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation Susan Schiffman — Duke University Molly Birnbaum — Freelance Food Writer Harold McGee — Freelance Food Writer Kantha Shelke — Corvus Blue Tim Hanni — Master of Wine Institute Geoffrey Talavera — Freelance Flavor Consultant Peter Schieberle — Technical University of Munich Thomas Hofmann — Technical University of Munich Corinna Dawid — Technical University of Munich Veronika Somoza — University of Vienna Morten Andersen — University of Copenhagen Christophe Lavalle — AgroParisTech Stéphane Guichard — INRAE Thierry Thomas-Danguin — INRAE Erich Leitner — Graz University of Technology Hans-Georg Schmarr — University of Hohenheim Elke Pawelzik — University of Göttingen Michael Witting — Helmholtz Zentrum München Ralf Zimmermann — University of Rostock Francesco Capozzi — University of Bologna Giovanni Capuano — University of Naples Federico II Maurizio Servili — University of Perugia Rosa Lo Scalzo — CREA Italy Paolo Masella — University of Parma Fidel Toldrá — Instituto de Agroquímica y Tecnología de Alimentos María Dolores del Castillo — Spanish National Research Council Dolores Coreta-Gomis — University of Valencia Juan Fernández-García — University of Granada Ana Bayarri — University of Valencia Marta Corredig — Aarhus University Marina Heinonen — University of Helsinki Anu Hopia — University of Turku Kees de Graaf — Wageningen University & Research Gerry Barker — University of Leeds Jean-Marie Lehn — Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research Wilfried Meyerhof — German Institute of Human Nutrition Maik Behrens — German Institute of Human Nutrition John Prescott — University of Otago Anna M. Di Monaco — University of Naples Federico II Catherine Barry — University College Dublin Aurelio Lopez-Malo — Universidad de las Américas Puebla Rosario Zamora — Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia Isabel Hernando — Polytechnic University of Valencia Dolores Torres — University of Zaragoza Jean-Pierre Cotter — International Organization of the Flavor Industry Robert Hall — Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association Hervé This — AgroParisTech Arielle Johnson — Independent Flavor Researcher Dave Arnold — Museum of Food and Drink Ali Bouzari — Pilot R&D Peter Barham — University of Bristol François Chartier — INRAE Gérard Trystram — AgroParisTech

Dr. Russell Sharp examines a warning from the UK Urban AgriTech group that a planned 94% increase in electricity network standing charges from April 2026 could dramatically raise operating costs for vertical farms and greenhouses, risking business failures, reduced domestic produce and higher food prices. The episode explains how horticulture is excluded from the energy-intensive industries exemption, compares UK energy costs with EU competitors, and outlines how razor-thin margins make indoor growers particularly vulnerable; calling for urgent policy review and industry engagement. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Leo Marcelis — Wageningen University & Research Erik Runkle — Michigan State University Neil Mattson — Cornell University Bruce Bugbee — Utah State University Roberto Lopez — Michigan State University Chieri Kubota — Ohio State University Youbin Zheng — University of Guelph Toyoki Kozai — Chiba University Genhua Niu — Texas A&M AgriLife Research A.J. Both — Rutgers University Peter van Weel — Wageningen University & Research Eugene Jones — University of Arizona Cary Mitchell — Purdue University Klaus Stanghellini — Wageningen University & Research Bert van Ruijven — Wageningen University & Research Frank Kempkes — Wageningen University & Research Ep Heuvelink — Wageningen University & Research Silvia Pampuri — Wageningen University & Research Simon Pearson — University of Lincoln David Llewellyn — Harper Adams University Paul Hadley — University of Reading Jeremy Burdon — Harper Adams University Mark Else — Cranfield University Graham Wallace — James Hutton Institute James Locke — USDA Agricultural Research Service Dewayne Ingram — University of Kentucky Michelle Jones — Ohio State University Kevin Folta — University of Florida Michele Montero — University of Almería Juan Fernández — University of Almería Kees van der Velden — Wageningen University & Research Artemis Koukounaras — Aristotle University of Thessaloniki Giacomo Tosti — University of Bologna Rita Maggini — University of Pisa Paolo Sambo — University of Padua Lorenzo Pardossi — University of Pisa Alessandro Ferrante — University of Milan Gabriele Costa — University of Bologna Luigi De Bellis — University of Salento Francesco Orsini — University of Bologna Michael Struik — Wageningen University & Research Andrew Neilson — University of Nottingham Zhenhua He — University of Florida Haijun Liu — Zhejiang University Yuanhui Zhang — University of Illinois Qingwu Guan — Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Xiuming Hao — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Bob Hansen — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Xiaohong Yang — Nanjing Agricultural University Jianjun Chen — University of Florida Pramod Pandey — University of Illinois Arun Kumar — Indian Agricultural Research Institute Sanjay Kumar — Indian Institute of Horticultural Research Rajesh Kumar — Punjab Agricultural University Hiroshi Shimizu — Kyoto University Masaharu Kitano — Kyushu University Yasushi Ishigami — University of Tokyo Toshihiko Kozai — Chiba University Keisuke Omasa — University of Tokyo Hirokazu Takahashi — Tohoku University

In this episode we examine why carnivorous plants and bonsai often struggle in coco grow media — coco (coir) can contain high sodium and is frequently buffered with calcium nitrate, resulting in elevated calcium and nitrogen compared with peat. The host suggests a fix: use raw high-sodium coco and flush it with Liquid Gypsum (calcium sulfate) to remove sodium without adding nitrogen, creating a peat-free grow medium suited to carnivorous plants and bonsai and a potential niche business idea. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/ Ryan Neil — Bonsai Mirai Bjorn Bjorholm — Eisei-en Bonsai Michael Hagedorn — Crataegus Bonsai Peter Chan — Herons Bonsai Walter Pall — Freelance Bonsai Artist Mauro Stemberger — Italian Bonsai Academy Kimura Masahiko — Kinbon Bonsai Garden Takeyama Takashi — Fujikawa Kouka-en Shinji Suzuki — Kaizen Bonsai Boon Manakitivipart — Bonsai Boon Jonas Dupuich — Bonsai Tonight Sergio Cuan — Bonsai Empire Colin Lewis — Freelance Bonsai Artist Kevin Willson — Bonsai Willson David Easterbrook — Freelance Bonsai Artist Graham Potter — Freelance Bonsai Artist Mauro Di Lorenzo — Bonsai Studio Italiano Eric Schrader — Bonsaify Andy Smith — Golden Arrow Bonsai Tony Tickle — Yardley Bonsai Jim Doyle — Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt Kathy Shaner — Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt Kathy and Jim Doyle — Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt Bill Valavanis — International Bonsai Arboretum Frank Mihalic — Bonsai Artist Nick Lenz — Freelance Bonsai Artist Dan Robinson — Elandan Gardens David Benavente — Bonsai Kai Pedro Morales — Bonsai Sur Salvatore Liporace — UBI Bonsai Jan Schlauer — Carnivorous Plant Society Europe Barry Rice — Carnivorous Plant Society Stewart McPherson — Redfern Natural History Andreas Fleischmann — Botanische Staatssammlung München Charles Clarke — Monash University Fernando Rivadavia — Universidade Estadual de Campinas Robert Cantley — Borneo Exotics Alastair Robinson — Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria Andreas Wistuba — Wistuba Carnivorous Plants Lubomír Adamec — Institute of Botany, Czech Academy of Sciences Peter D’Amato — California Carnivores Barry Meyers-Rice — International Carnivorous Plant Society Richard Nunn — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Grower Ivan Snyder — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Grower Thomas Carow — Green Jaws Marcel van den Broek — Carnivorous Plant Nursery Christian Klein — Kleins Carnivorous Plants Marcel van den Berg — Dutch Carnivorous Plant Society Brian Barnes — California Carnivores Tamlin Magee — Meadowview Biological Research Station Aaron Ellison — Harvard University Paulo Gonella — Universidade de São Paulo Kai Müller — University of Würzburg François Mey — Société Botanique de France Nicolas Riddick — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Grower Adam Karremans — Lankester Botanical Garden Kamil Pásek — Best Carnivorous Plants Christian Dietz — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Researcher Adrian Slack — Carnivorous Plant Author Paul McMillan — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Researcher Tony Tickle — Bonsai Artist Koji Hiramatsu — Shunkaen Bonsai Museum Kunio Kobayashi — Shunkaen Bonsai Museum Masahiko Kimura — Kinbon Bonsai Garden Naoki Maeoka — Japanese Bonsai Artist Taiga Urushibata — Japanese Bonsai Artist Ryuji Suzuki — Japanese Bonsai Artist David De Groot — Bonsai De Groot Andrew Robson — Rakuyo Bonsai Leo Eshkenazi — Freelance Bonsai Artist Jason Chan — Eastern Leaf Kevin Wilson — Bonsai Willson Mark Fields — Evergreen Gardenworks Brent Walston — Evergreen Gardenworks Michael Tran — Muranaka Bonsai Nursery Roy Nagatoshi — Royal Bonsai Garden Mas Iida — Iida Bonsai Nursery Peter Tea — Freelance Bonsai Artist Tony Remington — Freelance Bonsai Artist Harry Harrington — Bonsai4Me Damon Collingsworth — California Carnivores Mike King — Carnivorous Plant Nursery Andreas Fleischmann — Munich Botanical Collection Stewart McPherson — Redfern Natural History Productions Matt Opel — International Carnivorous Plant Society Bob Ziemer — Meadowview Biological Research Station Ron Determann — Meadowview Biological Research Station Tom Luecking — Freelance Carnivorous Plant Grower Richard Myers — Carnivorous Plant Society UK Adrian Yeo — Singapore Botanic Gardens Ch’ng Khoon Meng — Singapore Botanic Gardens Paul Harwood — Carnivorous Plant Society UK Jan Schlauer — Botanical Researcher Barry Rice — ICPS Peter D’Amato — California Carnivores Ryan McEnaney — Chicago Botanic Garden Kevin Wilson — Bonsai Willson Jonas Dupuich — Bonsai Tonight Bjorn Bjorholm — Eisei-en Bonsai Stewart McPherson — Redfern Natural History

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explains how dosatrons work and compares practical alternatives for run‑to‑waste hydroponic systems, including Venturi injectors, electric metering pumps, and simple fertigation tanks. He outlines the pros and cons of each option — cost, accuracy, power needs, maintenance, and scale — and covers considerations about recirculation, environmental impact, and regulatory risk. Ideal for growers choosing the right dosing method for medium to large greenhouse operations. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Jean-François Hannequart — Dosatron International Eric Roudaut — Dosatron International Philippe Martin — Dosatron International Pascal Lacroix — Dosatron International David Hull — Dosatron USA Bill Toler — Hydrofarm John Lindemann — Hydrofarm Terry Fitch — Hydrofarm Peter Wardenburg — Hydrofarm Gaby Miodownik — Netafim Ran Bar-Tal — Netafim Eliezer Zilberman — Netafim Poul Due Jensen — Grundfos Anne Grønbjerg — Grundfos Morten Bach Jensen — Grundfos Mikael Geday — Grundfos Bent Jensen — Grundfos Jeremy Brown — Iwaki America John Miersma — Iwaki America Andreas Kleimann — Iwaki Europe Marco Gandolfi — SEKO Davide Galli — SEKO Roberto Mantovani — SEKO Carlo Pizzocaro — SEKO Jim Lauria — Blue-White Industries Brian E. Cooney — Blue-White Industries Paul Van der Wal — Autogrow Systems Chris White — Autogrow Systems Shaun Whiteman — Autogrow Systems Scott Peters — Growlink Ted Tanner — Growlink Ryan Boyle — Growlink Ross Sherwood — Bluelab Darryn Keiller — Bluelab Colin Jennings — Bluelab John Kinsella — Hanna Instruments Oscar Llobet — Hanna Instruments Mark Johnson — Stenner Pump Company Kevin Perry — Stenner Pump Company Paul Riley — Walchem Kevin McDonnell — Walchem Dan Myers — Milton Roy (LMI) Thomas Pfitzner — Milton Roy Maurizio Bianchini — EMEC Marco Bernardini — EMEC Giorgio Bassi — Doseuro Stefano Bertolini — Doseuro Yossi Tal — Tefen Eyal Cohen — Tefen Hanu Pappu — Jain Irrigation Anil Jain — Jain Irrigation Naresh Patel — Jain Irrigation Harmen van der Meer — Priva Rick Van Der Zanden — Priva Erik Jansen — Priva Ben Nijland — Argus Controls Rick Mosher — Argus Controls Pat McIntyre — Argus Controls Don Janssen — AmHydro Gary Hickman — AmHydro Steven Bacon — CropKing Mark Doherty — CropKing Brian Young — General Hydroponics Ron Wold — General Hydroponics James Thompson — Netafim USA Steve Bradley — Netafim USA Mike McDonald — Dosatron USA Tom Ball — Dosatron USA Chris Higgins — Hort Americas Jeff Timmons — Hort Americas Scott Lowry — Current Culture H2O Derek Ruschmann — Current Culture H2O Mark Tracey — Nutriculture Graham Smith — Nutriculture Andrew Turnbull — HydroGarden Lee Stephenson — HydroGarden Nick Brook — Pure Hydroponics Oliver Edwards — Pure Hydroponics Matthew Hay — Autogrow Systems Ben Parsons — Autogrow Systems Chris Higgins — Lumigrow Ryan Donovan — LumiGrow James Eaves — Rivulis Itzhak Nir — Rivulis Moshe Ben-David — Rivulis Daniel Grant — Irritec Marco Sironi — Irritec Yaron Dagan — Bermad Rami Levi — Bermad Avi Peleg — Bermad Paul Shed — Nelson Irrigation Wade Jones — Nelson Irrigation Simon van der Walt — Greencube Pieter van der Merwe — Greencube Steve Mallory — Autogrow USA Mark DeKoster — GrowControl Daniel Stacey — GrowControl Jim Pantaleo — Xylem Patrick Decker — Xylem Kenji Sato — Takemura Electric Works

Hello there, and welcome back to Hydroponics Daily, your go-to podcast for everything soilless cultivation. I am your host, Dr. Russell Sharp, the founder of Eutrema Limited, a company that makes truly unique fertilizers, biostimulants, and biopesticides that you won't find anywhere else. The technology is completely unique. And today, the topic of the podcast is what I would do if I was faced with a virus in my crop. Specifically a crop where you want to protect the genetic material and you can't just throw the plants away often when we say when you've got a virus the first thing you should do is just destroy all plant material but what if you've got a strain a variety a cultivar that only you've got or is protected or is endangered or you need it for a breeding program or something like that and you need to get rid of the virus what are you going to do you can't give plants tamiflu that technology is not available you can't just wait for their immune system to fight the virus off because they don't have immune systems and so there's only really one option that i'm aware of and that's heat treatment so you when you're planting out cuttings tubers bulbs or seeds immersing them in hot water for a defined period can help with virus control. So we're talking about temperatures of 45 to 55 degrees Celsius. So you wouldn't keep plants, not many plants would live at that sort of temperature, they would soon die off, especially unless the humidity was really, really high. But the duration of which you give this treatment is only like 10 to 60 minutes. So in crops that's regularly, perennial crops, herbaceous perennial crops where they regularly suffer from viruses like sugar cane, sweet potato, banana, even grape vines and some ornamentals, you can do this and with success and control viruses. And you're best obviously doing it with smaller plants because smaller the plants, the more effective the treatment will be because of just the temperature profiles and things like that. Now obviously there's a big challenge there it could be phytotoxic it could just kill your plants from the heat but with a bit of experimentation you could find what is the sweet spot for your particular plant and in fact if I was going to do this if I had a plant that I needed to control the viruses I would do it until the plant breaks so I would get maybe 100 cuttings from a virus infected plant and I'd treat 10 at. What did I say the temperature was, 45 degrees Celsius for 10 minutes, and then all the way up to 10 that would be treated at 55 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes. No idea what that is in Fahrenheit, apologies for American listeners, but it's pretty warm, it's sort of like steam room temperature. So I would do a range and find out at what point did the plants die, and just go slightly below that, and really really stress it, because you don't want any virus particles in that new plant because it will be a source of infection and you will not get a chance to do this twice really so obviously seeds is the easiest but very rarely you won't go on to do that it's after that tubers something dormant a bulb they're going to be much more resistant much more tolerant of those high temperatures whereas a cutting is probably going to be the most sensitive but i would do it until it breaks if you're prepared to lose a few cuttings you could do it on unrooted cuttings and rooted cuttings i'd probably start with rooted cuttings see if you could get away with it because, severely stressing a cutting that's not rooted and then trying to get it to root you know you're not you you're in for a bad case there because you really struggle because it's all the cells are going to be weak and stressed from that heat treatment so i do it on rooted cuttings, newly rooted cuttings, not too much growing media around them. Okay, so that would be my. My suggestion, what are the success rates? If you're doing it on seeds, the sort of typical virus elimination you can achieve is 60 to 90%. Whole plant cure rate, typically around 50%. So you may need to screen the plants and quarantine and destroy any plants that are not completely successful. Micropropagation as well. There's often a technique that's used in micropropagation because you can, these plants are so much smaller than a normal cutting than a normal plant that you can quickly get them to the temperature and then back down again quickly whereas a a large corm or bulb or tuber you could think you can get in the center of that tuber to 50 degrees celsius means much longer and the outside temperature will have to be a lot warmer so so yeah that's probably going to be lower success rate there what else can we say this is sort of the term is thermotherapy by the way so what else can we say about it you can do it on whole plants large plants but you would probably need a grow room dedicated to it with a sort of a temperature of high 30s probably early 40s for two to six weeks that's a lot of heat if you're not in a tropical or arid area but you've got fruit trees large fruit trees ornamentals that are just infected then it might be worth it for targeting systemic viruses and preserving the whole plant structure rather than going back down to cuttings and starting it all over again. The heat stress will reduce the vigour and survival of the plants. You'll probably get some scorching on the leaves and things like that. So if it's an ornamental plant, you might reduce that. The success rates for whole plant thermotherapy are lower. So 30 to 70% virus elimination. And just because the temperatures are lower, so the virus isn't exposed to such a high temperature. And maybe this is why, you know, when you get a virus, like a cold or a flu, your body heats up because viruses don't like high temperatures. But, you know, tropical plants still get viruses. So I'd imagine this is harder to do on tropical plants and easier to do on temperate plants, because tropical plants are going to be exposed to these high temperatures anyway, and the viruses will be adapted to them. It will depend on the virus and its genetics, because even though they're not alive, they have genetics, they have genes, whether that's RNA or DNA. So the virus biology will have an effect and the host tolerance the ability to withstand those high temperatures will be key and the precise treatment i would probably do a water bath would probably be the easiest way to do it with cuttings now a water bath you can set to a set temperature and and dunk them in what's that thing they use in kitchens is it a bain marie when they when they're cooking steaks very precise temperatures you could potentially use one of those as well and or Or if you fail in that, a pot on a stove or something in an oven, some water in an oven that could get the plants to 50 degrees Celsius uniformly. So you don't want to put them in dry heat in an oven because they're exposed to all sorts of temperatures there. Definitely don't just put them in an oven. Definitely use a water bath for cuttings and things like that. So that would be my top tip. Just sort of Google there. You can pick up a Bain-Marie for like 100, 140 pounds. So that's not a lot considering the value if you're going to go to these lengths then the value of these plants must be considerable if you're going to spend the time and effort to try and eliminate viruses from them and potentially you know with virus testing getting better and better and more what's the word i'm looking for accessible you could potentially have a nice little hydroponic. Business selling certified virus-free heat treated cuttings that could be one of the things if you if in your industry cuttings there's a there's a business is selling cuttings and you're looking for a unique selling point then potentially you could say our product our cuttings are all heat treated and checked and checked for viruses before they leave the nursery and that could be a really good small little venture little bootstrapped hydroponic company to get you going up and running, selling, cuttings, and propagation material. Anyway, that's been Hydroponics Daily for today. If you found it interesting, please do give us an Apple podcast review because it does help spread the word of hydroponics with the wider horticultural gardening community and scientific community. If you're not an Apple, just make sure you follow the podcast so you don't miss an episode. We've got about 14 episodes left of 2025. I've done an episode every day,  at the very least check out www.Eutrema.co.uk for all your amazing. Fertilizers, biostimulants and biopesticides. None of our products control viruses because you can't control a virus. You have to either destroy your plants or heat treat them. You can use insecticides to prevent the spread of aphids, which transfer the viruses. We don't sell insecticides, we sell an insecticide or soap and that's about it. So yeah, that's been Hydroponics Daily for today. Thank you very much for listening and I'll see you again tomorrow. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Roger Hull — John Innes Centre David Baulcombe — University of Cambridge James Carrington — Donald Danforth Plant Science Center Andrew O. Jackson — University of California, Berkeley B. W. Falk — University of California, Davis Anne Simon — University of Maryland Herman Scholthof — Texas A&M University Siddarame Gowda — University of Florida Ralf Georg Dietzgen — University of Queensland Ioannis E. Tzanetakis — University of Arkansas Bryce Falk — University of California, Davis Karl Maramorosch — Rutgers University John Hammond — USDA Agricultural Research Service Robert A. Owens — USDA Agricultural Research Service Véronique Brault — INRAE Thierry Candresse — INRAE Stephane Blanc — INRAE Yiguo Hong — Zhejiang University Shou-Wei Ding — University of California, Riverside W. Allen Miller — Iowa State University Karen-Beth G. Scholthof — Texas A&M University Scott Adkins — USDA Agricultural Research Service Hanu R. Pappu — Washington State University Michael J. Adams — Rothamsted Research John Walsh — University of Warwick Peter Palukaitis — Seoul National University Said Ghabrial — University of Kentucky Rajagopalbabu Srinivasan — Texas A&M University Feng Qu — Ohio State University Michael M. Goodin — University of Kentucky Yongliang Zhang — Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Xueping Zhou — Zhejiang University Shahid Siddique — University of Tennessee Ping Qian — Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Shouhua Feng — Chinese Academy of Sciences Satyanarayana Tatineni — USDA Agricultural Research Service Aiming Wang — Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Feng Li — University of South Dakota Jinling Huang — East China Normal University Byungwook Ahn — Seoul National University Chikara Masuta — Hokkaido University Nobumichi Saitoh — University of Tokyo Tetsuo Meshi — Kyoto University Kei Fujiwara — University of Tokyo Masayuki Ishikawa — National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (Japan) Toru Fujiwara — University of Tokyo Sung-Hwan Yun — Seoul National University Kook-Hyung Kim — Seoul National University Yijun Zhou — Nanjing Agricultural University Jianping Chen — Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences Fengming Song — Zhejiang University Shou-Wei Ding — University of California, Riverside Jean-Michel Hily — INRAE Christophe Ritzenthaler — CNRS Hugues Vigne — University of Strasbourg José-Antonio Daròs — IBMCP-CSIC Ricardo Flores — IBMCP-CSIC Vicente Pallás — IBMCP-CSIC Pedro Moreno — IVIA Valencia María Teresa Gutiérrez — University of Granada Eugene S. Dennis — CSIRO Peter Waterhouse — Australian National University Mikhail Pooggin — Friedrich Miescher Institute Thomas Hohn — University of Basel Michael J. Oliver — USDA Agricultural Research Service Gary P. Munkvold — Iowa State University William O. Dawson — University of Florida James Schoelz — University of Missouri Claudio L. Bassett — USDA Agricultural Research Service Jorge A. Sánchez-Navarro — IBMCP-CSIC Rongxiang Fang — Chinese Academy of Sciences Yijun Qi — Tsinghua University

Dr. Russell Sharp explores the growing interest in perennial arable crops like Kernza, perennial rice and sorghum, explaining their environmental benefits, current commercial status, and the agronomic challenges they face. The episode also discusses breeding and gene-editing opportunities to improve yield and resilience, and considers how perennial grains might fit into hydroponic and niche high-value markets. https://eutrema.co.uk/ Maqsood Ali Wagan — Sindh Agriculture University Farhan Ali Wagan — Sindh Agriculture University Andrius Grigas — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Dainius Steponavičius — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Indrė Bručienė — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Ričardas Krikštolaitis — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Tomas Krilavičius — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Aušra Steponavičienė — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Dainius Savickas — Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry Alejandro Perdomo López — Reaseheath College / University Centre Adrienn S. — Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences S. Upreti — ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute Monica Dutta — Indian Institute of Information Technology Deepali Gupta — Indian Institute of Information Technology Sumegh Tharewal — Indian Institute of Information Technology Deepam Goyal — Indian Institute of Information Technology Jasminder Kaur Sandhu — Indian Institute of Information Technology Manjit Kaur — Indian Institute of Information Technology Ahmad Ali Alzubi — Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University Jazem Mutared Alanazi — Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University Sreehitha Padala — St. Francis College for Women Saniya Vaishnav — St. Francis College for Women Revathi Saravanan — St. Francis College for Women Basanti Chintapalli — St. Francis College for Women Sandeep Indurthi — Assam Agricultural University Ira Sarma — Assam Agricultural University Chereddy Maheswarareddy — Assam Agricultural University M. R. Islam — Bangladesh Agricultural University M. A. Rahman — Bangladesh Agricultural University S. K. Paul — Bangladesh Agricultural University A. K. Singh — ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute R. K. Yadav — ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute P. K. Singh — ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute J. L. Minhas — ICAR–Central Soil Salinity Research Institute V. P. Singh — ICAR–Central Soil Salinity Research Institute H. R. Sharma — Punjab Agricultural University S. S. Dhillon — Punjab Agricultural University M. A. Al-Khatib — King Saud University A. A. Al-Harbi — King Saud University N. H. Batool — University of Agriculture Faisalabad M. A. Nawaz — University of Agriculture Faisalabad Y. S. Kim — Seoul National University J. H. Lee — Seoul National University T. Matsuo — University of Tokyo K. Yamamoto — University of Tokyo P. J. Botha — University of Pretoria M. J. van der Merwe — University of Pretoria R. N. Singh — Banaras Hindu University S. K. Verma — Banaras Hindu University Alice Withrow — Purdue University

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how Dosatrons (water-powered dosing pumps) mix concentrated fertilizer like Gold Leaf/Liquid Gold into fertigation systems, describing the piston-driven mechanism, proportional injection, and why it maintains a constant concentration despite flow changes. The episode covers practical setup tips for off-grid hydroponics — solenoids, drippers, solar pumps, and how a Dosatron enables accurate, electricity-free dosing, along with limitations (not for powders, pressure loss, very viscous or abrasive chemicals) and a brief mention of Venturi injectors. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily breaks down the truth behind "cut-and-come-again" vegetables and viral social media hacks, explaining which crops genuinely regrow and which claims are misleading. Learn which leafy herbs and greens can be harvested multiple times, why most bulky vegetables won’t produce a marketable second crop, and when starting fresh is a better option for consistent yields. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Holly Wolf - Wolf of the Wild Ivy Vernalis  Farmer Belle  curlygardens rock.gardener  TheRoseGarden Becky Houzé Abby Hughes  

Dr. Russell Sharp explores advanced preservation methods for flower crops; from freeze-drying and glycerin sap replacement to citric acid treatments used for hops,cand how these techniques can create premium, display-ready products for shops, dispensaries, and e-commerce. This episode offers practical ideas for ornamentals and specialty growers looking to add high-value, long-lasting products to their lineup. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Ryan Hopkins — Yakima Chief Hops Karl VanEvanHoven — Yakima Chief Hops Bryan Pierce — Yakima Chief Hops Denis Gayte — Yakima Chief Hops Missy Raver — Yakima Chief Hops Cesar Silva — Yakima Chief Hops Aric Gamache — Yakima Chief Hops Dean Monshing — Yakima Chief Hops Salvador Benitez — Yakima Chief Hops Chuck St. Mary — Yakima Chief Hops  Drew Gaskell — Yakima Chief Hops Jason Champoux — Yakima Chief Ranches Jason Perrault — Yakima Chief Ranches Tom Davis — John I. Haas Stephanie Conrad — John I. Haas Alex Barth — John I. Haas Stephan Barth — BarthHaas Alexander Barth — BarthHaas Oliver Bergner — BarthHaas Peter Hintermeier — BarthHaas  Prof. Dr. Mirja Steinkamp — BarthHaas Dr. Philipp Ramin — BarthHaas Thomas Raiser — BarthHaas Nic Donald — BarthHaas X David Kerr — BarthHaas X Ian Clarke — BarthHaas X Kevin McCarry — BarthHaas X Enrico Prenni — BarthHaas X Sarah Goddard — BarthHaas X Maria Bailey — BarthHaas X  Jim Solberg — Indie Hops Roger Worthington — Indie Hops Matt Sage — Indie Hops Gayle Goschie — Goschie Farms Glenn Goschie — Goschie Farms Gordie Goschie — Goschie Farms John Coleman — Coleman Agriculture Brandon Davidson — BC Hop Farms Ben Smith — B & D Hop Farms Dave Smith — B & D Hop Farms  Blair Stewart — New Zealand Hops Glynn Rowell — New Zealand Hops Devin Biondi — New Zealand Hops Kerry Sutcliffe — New Zealand Hops Dr. Ron Beatson — New Zealand Hops Owen Johnston — Hop Products Australia Chris Price — Hop Products Australia Grace Irwin — Hop Products Australia Paul Corbett — Charles Faram Will Rogers — Charles Faram

Dr. Russell Sharp outlines the key 2026 dates affecting hydroponic growers (equinoxes, longest day) and recommends major trade shows and conferences worldwide — from IPM Essen and Fruit Logistica to Greentech Amsterdam, Indoor AgCon and MJBizCon. He also highlights UK and crop-specific events, tips for timing indoor grows, and invites listeners to suggest other shows for an updated diary. Tue–Fri 27–30 Jan 2026 — IPM ESSEN (Essen, Germany) IPM ESSEN Wed–Thu 11–12 Feb 2026 — Indoor Ag-Con (Las Vegas, USA) Indoor Ag-Con+1 Tue–Thu 9–11 Jun 2026 — GreenTech Amsterdam (RAI Amsterdam) GreenTech Sat–Sun 8–9 Aug 2026 — UK Hydro Expo (Somerset) (tickets noted as available from 1 Jan 2026 on their site) Uk Hydro Expo+1 Wed–Thu 2–3 Sept 2026 — Four Oaks Trade Show (Cheshire, UK) fouroaks-tradeshow.com https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Simona Bassu — Technical University of Munich Sebastian Eichelsbacher — Technical University of Munich Francesco Giunta — University of Sassari Rosella Motzo — University of Sassari Corinna Dawid — Technical University of Munich Martina Gastl — Technical University of Munich Michael Schloter — Helmholtz Zentrum München Katharina A. Scherf — Leibniz Institute for Food Systems Biology at the Technical University of Munich Stefan Hör — Technical University of Munich Yuri Pinheiro Alves De Souza — Helmholtz Zentrum München Stefanie Schulz — Helmholtz Zentrum München Timo D. Stark — Technical University of Munich Volker Mohler — Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture (LfL) Senthold Asseng — Technical University of Munich Mahmoud A. Abdelhamid — Ain Shams University Sobhy M. Mahmoud — Ain Shams University Zeinab M. Hendy — Ain Shams University Mohamed K. Abou El-Nasr — Ain Shams University Zhao Zhang — China Agricultural University Monica Dutta — Chitkara University Deepali Gupta — Chitkara University Sapna Juneja — KIET Group of Institutions Saleh AlNadhari — King Saud University Samir Brahim Belhaouari — Hamad Bin Khalifa University Wenyi Liu — Hunan Agricultural University Zhihua Zhang — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Bin Zhang — Hunan University of Science and Engineering Yi Zhu — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Chongwen Zhu — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Chaoyong Chen — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Fangxu Zhang — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Feng Liu — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Jixiang Ai — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Wei Wang — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Wuyuan Kong — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Haoming Xiang — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Weifeng Wang — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Daoxin Gong — Hunan Agricultural University Delong Meng — Hunan University of Science and Engineering Li Zhu — Changde Tobacco Company of Hunan Province Taehyun Roh — Texas A&M University Laura Ashley Verzwyvelt — Houston Methodist Hospital Anisha Aggarwal — Texas A&M University Raj Satkunasivam — Houston Methodist Hospital Nishat Tasnim Hasan — Texas A&M University Nusrat Fahmida Trisha — Texas A&M University Charles Hall — Texas A&M University Ponkamon Ruploet — Kalasin University Kathanyoo Kaewhanam — Kalasin University Sayan Phansoomboon — Kalasin University Anan Piriyaphattarakit — Thailand Institute of Science and Technological Research Amina Haider — Universiti Malaya Muhammad Faisal — Universiti Malaya Laiq Hasan — Universiti Malaya Syed Danish Yousaf — COMSATS University Islamabad Ali Raza — COMSATS University Islamabad Muhammad M. Umer — COMSATS University Islamabad Smart Idumoro Samuel — Landmark University Oluwaseun Temitope Faloye — Federal University Oye-Ekiti Abiodun Afolabi Okunola — Landmark University Adeolu Adediran — Federal University Oye-Ekiti Viroon Kamchoom — King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang Natdanai Sinsamutpadung — King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang Polina Kuryntseva — Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University Nataliya Pronovich — Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University Gulnaz Galieva — Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University Polina Galitskaya — Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University Svetlana Selivanovskaya — Kazan (Volga Region) Federal University Alessandro Esposito — University of Palermo Alessandra Moncada — University of Palermo Filippo Vetrano — University of Palermo Eristanna Palazzolo — University of Palermo Caterina Lucia — University of Palermo Alessandro Miceli — University of Palermo Zoe Karachaliou — University of Thessaly Ioannis Naounoulis — University of Thessaly Nikolaos Katsoulas — University of Thessaly Efi Levizou — University of Thessaly Manlio Fabio Aranda Barrera — Universidad Panamericana Hiram Ponce — Universidad Panamericana Mino Sportelli — ISTI-CNR Davide La Rosa — ISTI-CNR Antonino Crivello — ISTI-CNR Dunia Pineda-Medina — ISTI-CNR Manlio Bacco — ISTI-CNR Paolo Barsocchi — ISTI-CNR Kateryna Vasylkovska — Central Ukrainian National Technical University Mykola Kovalov — Central Ukrainian National Technical University Oleksii Vasylkovskyi — Central Ukrainian National Technical University Daria Michailova — Kropyvnytskyi Agrarian Professional College Angélica Nohemí Cardona Rodríguez — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Carlos Alberto Olvera-Olvera — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Santiago Villagrana-Barraza — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Ma. Auxiliadora Araiza-Ezquivel — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Diana I. Ortíz-Esquivel — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Luis Octavio Solís-Sánchez — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Germán Díaz-Flórez — Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas Jeongwook Heo — Rural Development Administration (National Institute of Agricultural Sciences) Jeonghyun Baek — Rural Development Administration (National Institute of Agricultural Sciences) Zarin Subah — University of Idaho Boise  

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses the struggle of the UK and European hydroponic sector, focusing on recent enforcement in the Netherlands over continuous in-line dosing of hydrogen peroxide. He explains why regulators flagged the practice, the science behind peroxide breakdown, and his frustration with overly rigid enforcement. Russell also offers practical advice: avoid continuous peroxide dosing to protect roots and yields, keep systems clean, and use peroxide sparingly. He reflects on the wider impact of regulation on innovation and shares how his company adapts to EU rules. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Matthew Appleby — Horticulture Week Sally Drury — Horticulture Week Gavin McEwan — Horticulture Week Clare Foggett — The English Garden Vivienne Hambly — The English Garden Sue Fisher — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Emma Crawforth — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Kevin Smith — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Miranda Janatka — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Kay Maguire — BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Daniel Haynes — Gardeners’ World Catherine Mansley — Gardeners’ World Sonya Patel Ellis — Gardeners’ World Kate Bradbury Greg Loades Veronica Peerless — Gardens Illustrated Kate Jacobs — Gardens Illustrated Tim Richardson — Gardens Illustrated Alys Fowler Jane Perrone Alexandra Campbell Alice Vincent Alice Lascelles — Financial Times Tom Heap — BBC James Wong Val Bourne Anne Swithinbank Bob Flowerdew Mark Diacono Cleve West Sarah Raven Annie Guilfoyle Andrew Timothy O’Brien Jonathan Buckley Tamsin Hope Thomson Nic Wilson Kim Stoddart — Amateur Gardening Alan Titchmarsh Monty Don Carol Klein Joe Swift Pippa Greenwood Paul Green Noel Kingsbury Marian Boswall Jack Wallington Alice Bowe Jane Courtier Rachel de Thame Lucy Chamberlain Carolyne Roehm Noel Kingsbury Nigel Slater — The Observer Anna Pavord Penelope Lively Beth Chatto Christopher Lloyd Vita Sackville-West Gertrude Jekyll Margery Fish Dan Pearson Tom Stuart-Smith Armitage Shanks (No, wrong) Toby Buckland Fergus Garrett Sarah Cuttle Lia Leendertz Matthew Biggs Peter Seabrook Bunny Guinness Alice Doyle Jamie Butterworth — RHS Guy Barter — RHS Helen Yemm — The Telegraph Jane Moore Debora Robertson Mary-Kay Wilmers Emma Townsend Jessica Damiano — Associated Press Adrian Higgins — The Washington Post Margaret Roach Ken Druse Jeff Lowenfels Doug Oster — Pittsburgh Post-Gazette Maria Rodale Danielle Sherry — Fine Gardening Jeremie Fant — Fine Gardening Caitlin Boyle — Fine Gardening Erin L. Schanen — Fine Gardening Lisa Negri — Fine Gardening Benjamin Vogt Roy Diblik Kelly D. Norris Nancy J. Ondra Allan Armitage Piet Oudolf Noel Kingsbury Michael Pollan Joe Lamp’l P. Allen Smith

Dr. Russell Sharp discusses e-commerce strategies for hydroponic businesses, advising against competing in commodity leafy greens and recommending niche, high‑value preserved products like freeze‑dried herbs, pickles, and gourmet fermented goods. He outlines marketing channels (social ads, trade shows, brand storytelling), logistics considerations (cold chain vs preserved goods), alternatives like ornamentals and cut flowers, and cautions about high costs and platform pitfalls such as selling on Amazon. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Greens For Good OnlyHydroponics Max Green Farms Gabbar Farms LEAFY (Leafy Scot) Oasis Hydroponics Sunway XFarms Vexotics Dizon Farms Delivers Biogrove Foodstories Kaze Living ElaGreens GetBlok Farms Greens For Good OnlyHydroponics Sunden Farms Urban Greens Revol Greens Vertical Roots Village Farms International Oishii Soli Organic Square Roots Grow Vertical Harvest Smallhold Fischer Farms Market 114 Sustainable Farm by Custom Cuisine Lettuce Grow Plenty Farm Fresh to You Live Greens Local Greens Farm Urban Sprouts Farm FreshBox Farms Green Spirit Farms Eden Green Farms Green Sense Farms LightHouse Farms Iron Ox Farms Bowery Urban Growers Goodleaf Farms Farm One VertiCrop Fresh Origins Sundrop Farms BrightFarms Hollandia Produce / Pete’s Living Greens Mae Farms CropOne Holdings City Farm Co Pure Greens Growers National Greens Eden Organic Greens HydroFarm Produce Co Blue River Farms NuLeaf Farms Urban Leaf Growers FreshField Farms Terra Greens HydroHarvest GreenLeaf Vertical Farms

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why bootstrapping is the best route for many hydroponic ventures, emphasizing unique products, testing market demand, and protecting cash flow. He warns against offering customer credit—suggesting pro forma payments and using strong order books to secure bank loans if scaling is needed—plus practical tips for long-term sustainability. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Geoffrey Guy Brian Whittle Justin Gover Tom Whettem Adam Windish Paul Kenward Ben Langley Gabriel Newman Sam Ashton Jon Robson Maximillian White Mason Soiza Oliver Soar Scott Stephen Peter Zownir Graham Woodward Rupa Shah Dr Susan Jane Clenton Frances Crewdson Tom Gray Mike Morgan-Giles Nick Pateras Ricardo Geada Dr Sunil Arora Damien Bove Sam Cannon Hamish Clegg Matt Hughes James Leavesley Dr Shanna Marrinan Paul North Sonal Patel Tony Reeves Clare Holliday James Duckenfield Adam George Martin Dickie Richard Reed Christian Angermayer Maria Raga Irina Elena Haivas Sophia Bendz Fiona Pathiraja Michelle Tempest Leafy Tunnel Salica Measure 8 Venture Partners Casa Verde Capital Deepbridge Capital Kindred Capital

Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down how water is controlled in hydroponic systems: pressure‑regulated drippers set the flow rate, spikes only deliver the water, and solenoid valves control timing. He explains why pipe size matters little, how blockage and water hardness affect drippers, and why pH or RO water are common choices. This short episode also previews dosing and fertigation meters to be covered next, and offers practical tips for automating reliable irrigation. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Gotham Greens FresH2O Growers Thanet Earth The Green House Ely The Green House Sussex Village Farms International Vertical Harvest Farms Eden Green Technology Plenty AeroFarms GoodLeaf Farms Just Vertical ZipGrow Harvest Today Freight Farms Smallhold Elevate Farms Raiz Vertical Farms Eden Grow Systems Homer Farms Growponics Ltd. Novagric Greener Crop Inc. Levo International Bowery Farming BrightFarms Kalera Infarm Crop One Holdings Iron Ox 80 Acres Farms Green Sense Farms Sky Greens Agritech Nordic Agricool Agrilution Systems Autogrow Systems Green Spirit Farms Farm.One Nordic Harvest SPREAD Co., Ltd. Pure Green Farms Red Sun Farms Eurofresh Farms Swiss Leaf Farms Planet Farms Future Crops Urban Crop Solutions Infinite Acres NatureFresh Farms

Dr. Russell Sharp explores Egypt’s push into large-scale greenhouse and hydroponic production, driven in part by the military, and compares it to Morocco’s desalination-led expansion of fresh produce. The episode covers greenhouse construction, water supply challenges, berry and high-value crop ambitions, and how military involvement affects local agriculture and supply chains. It examines implications for food security, competition between countries, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of soilless cultivation when pursued at national scale. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/ Tutankhamun Cleopatra Ramses II Nefertiti Imhotep Hatshepsut Omar Sharif Umm Kulthum Taha Hussein Naguib Mahfouz Gamal Abdel Nasser Anwar Sadat Mohamed Salah Dalida Amr Diab Ahmed Zewail Saad Zaghloul Boutros Boutros-Ghali Youssef Chahine Farouk Hosni

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why you should drastically reduce or stop fertilizing perennial crops during winter dormancy or cold storage. Plants take up little or no nutrients in cold conditions, and added nitrogen—especially ammonium—can convert to toxic nitrites that harm cellular respiration, photosynthesis and root health. He recommends dialling fertiliser back to near zero during dormancy, avoiding ammonium-based formulations in cold media, and resuming accurate dosing only when plants are actively growing or in heated environments. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Rattan Lal – Ohio State University Asmeret Asefaw Berhe – U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science Johan Six – ETH Zürich Diana H. Wall – Colorado State University Johannes Lehmann – Cornell University Yakov Kuzyakov – University of Göttingen Noah Fierer – University of Colorado Boulder Mark A. Bradford – Yale University Franciska de Vries – University of Amsterdam Claire Chenu – INRAE / AgroParisTech Lorna Dawson – James Hutton Institute Bridget Emmett – UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology David S. Powlson – Rothamsted Research Jacqueline (Jack) Hannam – Cranfield University Jonathan Sanderman – Woodwell Climate Research Center Thomas W. Crowther – ETH Zürich Carlos A. Guerra – German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Brajesh K. Singh – Western Sydney University Fernando T. Maestre – King Abdullah University of Science and Technology Mark Kibblewhite – Cranfield University R. Michael Miller – Argonne National Laboratory Peter Smith – University of Aberdeen Kristine Nichols – Soil Regeneration Unlimited Elaine Ingham – Soil Food Web School Isabel Barros – University of Coimbra Maria J. I. Briones – University of Vigo Lucrezia Caon – Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Manuel Delgado-Baquerizo – Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) Richard D. Bardgett – University of Manchester Nico Eisenhauer – Leipzig University / iDiv David J. Eldridge – University of New South Wales Ingrid Kögel-Knabner – Technical University of Munich Dominique Arrouays – INRAE, InfoSol Unit Megan Balks – University of Waikato Borris Boincean – Alecu Russo State University of Bălți Pardon Muchaonyerwa – University of KwaZulu-Natal Maja Krzic – University of British Columbia Dan Evans – Cranfield University Karl Ritz – University of Nottingham Simon Jeffery – Harper Adams University Aidan Keith – UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Sam Bonnett – University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) Lizzie Sagoo – ADAS Anne Bhogal – ADAS John Williams – ADAS Chris Stapleton – Independent soil consultant (formerly HS2 Ltd) Marla Riekman – Manitoba Agriculture Dianna Bagnall – Soil Health Institute Ólafur Arnalds – Agricultural University of Iceland André Bationo – African Development Bank (soil fertility specialist) Charles A. Igwe – University of Nigeria, Nsukka Lydia Jennings – Independent environmental / soil scientist Alina Widmer – University of Bern Yamina Pressler – For the Love of Soil Andie Marsh – Independent soil scientist / communicator Alexandra Muxworthy – PES Technologies Luke Harrold – Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) Mark S. McClain – Independent soil and wetland scientist Tim Overheu – Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Western Australia Adrian P. Broz – Planetary Soils

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp explores leasing and rental business models for hydroponic systems—ranging from small kitchen towers to commercial vertical farms—covering potential revenue streams, financing advantages, turnkey options for growers, and the practical risks involved. He highlights examples from the industry, discusses who benefits from rentals, and invites listeners to share their experiences or case studies. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Monty Don Alan Titchmarsh Adam Frost Frances Tophill Joe Swift Arit Anderson Carol Klein Nick Bailey Rachel de Thame Sue Kent Toby Buckland David Domoney Katie Rushworth Charlie Dimmock Christine Walkden Diarmuid Gavin Chris Beardshaw Juliet Sargeant Alys Fowler James Wong Carole Baxter Brian Cunningham Kirsty Wilson Michael Perry Roy Lancaster Chris Collins Advolly Richmond Pippa Greenwood Matthew Wilson James Alexander-Sinclair Matt Biggs Bob Flowerdew Chris Baines Bunny Guinness Jim McColl Sarah Raven Rich Brothers Anne Swithinbank Andy Sturgeon Dan Pearson Alan Gardner Kim Wilde Tommy Walsh Matt James Stefan Buczacki Lee Connolly George Hassall Tayshan Hayden-Smith Joel Bird Errol Reuben Fernandes Poppy Okotcha Manoj Malde Tom Massey Pip Probert Helen Elks-Smith Penny Lamb Colin Stafford-Johnson Camilla Bassett-Smith Anna Greenland Sarah Gerrard-Jones Scott Smith Oliver Bond Chris Hull Steve Williams Lee Burkhill Peter McDermott Richard Jackson Daisy Payne Ned Don Peter Donegan Mark Lane Danny Clarke George Anderson Calum Clunie Walter Gilmour Bill Torrance Sid Robertson Mike Dilger Nigel Colborn Nick Macer Florence Headlam Nigel Don Chris Jones John Kelly Liz Rigby Rod Saunders Rachel Saunders JJ Chalmers Clay Jones Joy Larkham Lawrence Llewellyn-Bowen Kate Humble Carol Vorderman Mark Foster Ian Hood Tony Kirkham Jamie Butterworth Tom Hart Dyke Nick Bailey  Alice Vincent

Dr. Russell Sharp of Utrema discusses a striking Facebook post—an AI image of rat droppings on an NFT lettuce system—and asks whether rodents are a real threat in hydroponics. The episode covers the main risks rodents pose: disease transmission (salmonella, leptospirosis, hantavirus), contamination of recirculating fertigation solutions, crop damage, and quality/safety losses. Practical control advice is offered using an integrated pest management approach: seal entry points, install fine mesh on vents, reduce outdoor hiding spots, use traps (preferred over poisons), monitor and keep pest logs, and consider professional tamper-resistant services for larger operations. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Marisa Thompson — Extension Urban Horticulture Specialist, New Mexico State University, USA Abiya (Abi) Saeed — Extension Horticulture Specialist, Montana State University Extension, USA Svoboda Vladimirova Pennisi — Extension Horticulture Specialist, Department of Horticulture, University of Georgia, USA Michael Parker — Extension Horticulture Specialist (Tree Fruits & Pecans), Department of Horticultural Science, North Carolina State University, USA Kim Todd — Professor & Extension Horticulture Specialist, Agronomy & Horticulture, University of Nebraska–Lincoln, USA Karen Panter — Emeritus Extension Horticulture Specialist, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Wyoming, USA Todd Higgins — Horticulture Specialist, University of Missouri Extension, USA Linda Chalker-Scott — Extension Horticulturist, Washington State University, USA Jeff Gillman — Director, UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, USA Joe Masabni — Extension Vegetable Specialist, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, USA Mengmeng Gu — Professor & Extension Horticulturist, Texas A&M University, USA Ajay Nair — Associate Professor & Extension Vegetable Specialist, Iowa State University, USA Chris Currey — Associate Professor of Horticulture, Iowa State University, USA Gary Bachman — Extension Horticulture Specialist, Mississippi State University Extension, USA David Trinklein — Horticulture Specialist, University of Missouri, USA Pam Bennett — Horticulture Educator, Ohio State University Extension, USA Bert Cregg — Professor of Horticulture & Forestry, Michigan State University, USA Holly Scoggins — Associate Professor of Horticulture (emerita), Virginia Tech, USA Youbin Zheng — Professor, School of Environmental Sciences (controlled environment horticulture), University of Guelph, Canada Gopinadhan Paliyath — Professor, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Canada John A. Cline — Professor, Department of Plant Agriculture (tree fruit horticulture), University of Guelph, Canada Mary Jane Clark — Professor of Horticulture, Niagara College, Canada David Percival — Professor & Director, Wild Blueberry Research Program, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Canada Rajasekaran (Raj) Lada — Professor, Horticultural Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Canada Samuel Asiedu — Professor, Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Canada Kate Congreves — Associate Professor, Environmental Agronomy & Horticulture, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Canada Bob Bors — Assistant Professor & Head of Fruit Program, Department of Plant Sciences, University of Saskatchewan, Canada Jackie Bantle — Greenhouse and Horticulture Facility Manager, University of Saskatchewan, Canada Clarence Swanton — Professor Emeritus, Department of Plant Agriculture, University of Guelph, Canada Jason L. McCallum — Research Scientist (Plant / Horticultural Science), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Canada Alistair Griffiths — Director of Science & Collections, Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), UK Tijana Blanusa — Horticultural Scientist, School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading & RHS, UK Jim Monaghan — Professor of Applied Horticulture / Crop Production, Harper Adams University, UK Andrew Beacham — Senior Lecturer in Horticultural Science, Harper Adams University, UK Lauren Chappell — Vegetable Crop Scientist / Plant Pathologist, Warwick Crop Centre, University of Warwick, UK Ross Cameron — Professor of Horticulture and Landscape Plant Science, University of Sheffield, UK Meirion Roberts — Lecturer involved in Horticultural Science modules, Aberystwyth University, UK Rachel Baxter — Lecturer / Researcher in Crop & Horticultural Science, Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, UK Paul Hadley — Professor of Horticultural Crop Science, University of Reading, UK David Evans — Head of Grounds and Gardens (horticultural science background), University of Exeter, UK John Mulhern — College Principal, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Dublin, Ireland James Brady — Lecturer, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Ireland Hui Xing — Lecturer, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Ireland Shane Brett — Lecturer, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Ireland Eoghan Buckley — College Lecturer – Horticulture, Teagasc Kildalton College, Ireland Grainne McMahon — Assistant Principal – Horticulture, Teagasc Kildalton College, Ireland Teri Acheson — College Lecturer – Horticulture, Teagasc (Ireland) Darren White — Technician, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, National Botanic Gardens, Ireland Deirdre Walsh — Assistant Principal, Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture, Ireland

Host Dr Russell-Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores how hydroponics and vertical farming are widely used by non-food companies; especially cosmetics and fragrance brands, to grow active ingredients, herbs, and flowers for skincare and perfumes. The episode highlights companies in France, the US, and South Korea (including L'Oréal, Ule, Plant Advanced Technologies, and Therminic) and points out surprising uses like perfumery, medicinal herbs, and clean hydroponic skincare extracts. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ The Beet: A Podcast For Plant Lovers – Kevin Espiritu; Jacques Lyakov The joe gardener Show – Joe Lamp'l The Beginner's Garden – Jill McSheehy A Way to Garden – Margaret Roach KSL Greenhouse – Maria Shilaos; Taun Beddes Garden Basics with Farmer Fred – Fred Hoffman Garden Talk with Mr. Grow It – Chris (Mr. Grow It) The Gardening with Joey & Holly Radio Show – Joey Baird; Holly Baird Flower Power Garden Hour – Marlene Simon Backyard Gardens - Gardening for Everyone – Ben Gardner; Batavia Choctaw The Gestalt Gardener – Felder Rushing Neil Sperry's Gardens – Neil Sperry Davis Garden Show and Beyond – Don Shor; Lois Richter Just Grow Something – Karin Velez South Texas Gardening with Bob Webster – Bob Webster WPTF Weekend Gardener – Mike Raley; Rufus Edmisten Garden America – John Bagnasco; Bryan Main; Tiger Palafox Garden Talk (Wisconsin Public Radio) – Larry Meiller All Things Gardening – Mary Engisch; Charlie Nardozzi Better Lawns and Gardens – Teresa Watkins Cultivating Place – Jennifer Jewell Let's Argue About Plants – Steve Aitken; Danielle Sherry Green and Growing with Ashley Frasca – Ashley Frasca GardenLine with Skip Richter – Robert “Skip” Richter The Garden Mixer – Marianne Willburn; Leslie Harris Getting Dirty – Allison Turcan; Ivana Pilarska Focus on Flowers – Moya Andrews Garden Dilemmas, Delights & Discoveries – Mary Stone Bird Hugger – Catherine Greenleaf Valley Nursery Plantcast – Justin Robbins; Erin Parker Garden Variety – Charity Nebbe New Southern Garden – Nathan Wilson Garden Talk by Walter Andersen Nursery – Susy Lopez; Walter Andersen Rose Chat Podcast – Teresa Byington Growing Joy with Plants – Maria Failla In The Garden with Ron Wilson – Ron Wilson GardenFork Radio – Eric Rochow The Dirt Doctor Radio Show – Howard Garrett GardenDC – Kathy Jentz Yard Coach – Matt (Yard Coach Matt) In The Garden (KSFO) – Bob Tanem Growing Our Future – Gardopia Gardens team Your Midwest Garden Podcast – Mike O’Rourke; Scott Sandstrom The Garden Question – Craig McManus DIY Garden Minute by Spoken Garden – Sean McManus; Allison McManus Garden Talk with Mark Webber – Mark Webber Paul Parent Garden Club Show – Paul Parent Encyclopedia Botanica – Hilary Dahl Bloomers in the Garden – Len Schroeder; Julio Zamora A Garden Runs Through It – UC Master Gardeners of Colusa County Gardeners’ Question Time – Kathy Clugston; Peter Gibbs Gardening with the RHS – Guy Barter; Gareth Richards; Jenny Laville Gardeners’ Corner – David Maxwell On The Ledge – Jane Perrone The Organic Gardening Podcast – Fiona Taylor; Chris Collins grow, cook, eat, arrange – Sarah Raven; Arthur Parkinson Talking Heads - a Gardening Podcast – Saul Walker; Lucy Chamberlain Mike The Gardener - Gardening Podcast – Mike Palmer The Veg Grower Podcast – Richard Suggett Talking Dirty – Alan Gray; Thordis Fridriksson The Happy Garden Podcast – Mollie Green; Darren Rudge Pots & Trowels - The Gardening Podcast – Martin Fish; Jill Fish; Sean Riley Field and Garden – Lisa Mason Ziegler Home Show Garden Pros Radio – Home Show Garden Pros team Gardens, Weeds & Words – Andrew O’Brien Roots and All – Sarah Wilson The Scottish Garden Podcast – Julianne Robertson Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast – Gardeners’ World editorial team The Sodshow – Peter Donegan Gardeners of the Galaxy – Emma the Space Gardener (Emma Doughty) All The Dirt – Steve Wood; Deryn Thorpe The Garden Clinic – Graham Ross; Sandra Ross In Defense of Plants – Matt Candeias We Dig Plants – Carmen Devito; Alice Marcus Krieg Plantrama – Ellen Zachos; C.L. Fornari Gardenerd Tip of the Week – Christy Wilhelmi The Native Plant Podcast – Mike Berkley; John Magee Still Growing – Jennifer Ebeling Epic Gardening (audio show) – Kevin Espiritu Grow, Cook, Inspire – Helen Cross Into the Garden with Leslie – Leslie Harris The Flower Podcast – Scott Shepherd The Cut Flower Podcast – Nicola Dixon Slow Flowers Podcast – Debra Prinzing The Plant Based Podcast – Ellen Mary; Michael Perry Growing Together: A Gardening Podcast – Don Kinzler; John Lamb The Urban Garden Podcast – Encore Ray The Kitchen Garden Magazine Podcast – Kitchen Garden editorial team Gardening with Ben – Ben (Gardening with Ben) The Garden Log – Ben Dark RHS Gardening Podcast – Royal Horticultural Society gardening team The Dirt: the gardening podcast from Grow Your Own magazine – Grow Your Own magazine team Skinny Jean Gardener Podcast – Lee Connelly Plant Talk Radio – Fred Hower My Garden Podcast – Penny Haslam Maritime Gardening Podcast – Greg Auton Gardens Illustrated Podcast – Gardens Illustrated editorial team Cultivate Simple – Brian Chiots; Susy Chiots DIRT with Diarmuid Gavin and Paul Smyth – Diarmuid Gavin; Paul Smyth Gardenerd Podcast – Christy Wilhelmi

Dr. Russell Sharp explores crops that struggle outdoors in the UK due to short, cool seasons and shows how hydroponics or protected cultivation can make them viable. He discusses sweet potato slips, cotton, jute, castor bean, rice trials, peanuts, melons, chillies and more, plus business opportunities for growers and the effects of climate change on crop potential. Listeners will learn which crops need grow rooms or greenhouses, which might be trialed outdoors, and ideas for commercial hydroponic production and supply to gardeners and farmers. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Terka Acton Henry Agg Simon Akeroyd Souren Ala Adam Alexander Rosemary Alexander James Alexander-Sinclair Zena Alkayat Zia Allaway Sharon Amos Camilla Anderson Jill Anderson Tanya Anderson Stephen Anderton Natalie Anstey Matthew Appleby Russell Attwood Claire Austin Matthew Baber Chris Baines Craig Ball Andrea Ballard Richard Barnes Camilla Bassett-Smith Nina Baxter Joanne Beattie Lucy Bellamy Pip Bensley Pernilla Bergdahl Vanessa Berridge Matthew Biggs Andrea Blackie Judith Blacklock Bridget Blair Adrian Bloom Richard Bloom Marian Boswall Julia Boulton Val Bourne Daisy Bowie-Sell Helier Bowling Edward Bowring Steven Bradley Sue Bradley Mandy Bradshaw Christopher Brickell Frances Brown Tom Brown Ursula Buchan Jonathan Buckley Stefan Buczacki Diane Budd Adriano Bulla Lee Burkhill Deborah Burn Paula Bushell Steve Bustin Lucy Butler Ciar Byrne Lorraine Caley Alexandra Campbell Lucy Chamberlain Amy Chapman Karen Chapman Michelle Chapman Ruth Chivers Shereen Chung-Blake JP Clark Francesca Clarke Victoria Clarke Richard Claxton Philip Clayton George Clowes Nigel Colborn Tom Coleman Christopher Collins Matthew Collins Vicki Cooke Hilary Course Kenneth Cox Martyn Cox Ray Cox Simon Crawford Emma Crawforth Helen Cross Sarah Croud Ken Crowther Leanne Crozier Fiona Cumberpatch Sally Cunningham Julie Dansereau Kate Dardis Ruth Darrah Dave Darwent Holly Daulby Chris Day Jo Davey Claudia de Yong Wendy Desyllas Mark Diacono

Dr. Russell Sharp tours botanical gardens around the world that feature hydroponic and aquaponic displays, from Pittsburgh and Dallas to Bethlehem, Malaysia, Dresden, Baghdad, and Irkutsk. The episode highlights these sites as educational and STEM-focused exhibits, emphasizes hydroponics' water-saving benefits, and invites listeners to suggest other gardens for future episodes. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew – Richard Deverell New York Botanical Garden – Jennifer Bernstein Missouri Botanical Garden – Lúcia G. Lohmann Singapore Botanic Gardens – Tan Puay Yok Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Simon Milne Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria – Chris Russell Chicago Botanic Garden – Jean M. Franczyk Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden – Carl E. Lewis Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – Werner Voigt Atlanta Botanical Garden – Mary Pat Matheson Longwood Gardens – Paul B. Redman Brooklyn Botanical Garden – Adrian Benepe United States Botanic Garden – Saharah Moon Chapotin The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens – Karen R. Lawrence Royal Botanic Garden Sydney – Denise Ora Auckland Botanic Gardens – Jack Hobbs UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley – Lew Feldman UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden – Kathleen Socolofsky Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University – William (Ned) Friedman Morris Arboretum & Gardens of the University of Pennsylvania – Bill Cullina Desert Botanical Garden (Phoenix) – Ken Schutz San Diego Botanic Garden – Ari Novy Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens – Gretchen Ostherr Norfolk Botanical Garden – Michael Desplaines Montgomery Botanical Center – Patrick Griffith Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens – Richard V. Piacentini Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden – Sabina Carr Queens Botanical Garden – Evie Hantzopoulos Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – Brian Trader Holden Forests & Gardens (Holden Arboretum and Cleveland Botanical Garden) – Jill Koski Naples Botanical Garden – Donna McGinnis University of Oxford Botanic Garden and Arboretum – Simon Hiscock Cambridge University Botanic Garden – Beverley Glover Marie Selby Botanical Gardens – Jennifer Rominiecki Jardin botanique de Montréal – Anne Charpentier

Dr Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores cardoon, a giant thistle related to globe artichoke, as a lucrative hydroponic crop ideal for small to medium grow rooms and a strong alternative to cannabis. He outlines the crop’s fast growth and large biomass, year‑round production potential under controlled conditions, easy propagation from rhizomes, and culinary demand from Lyonnaise and Michelin‑star kitchens. He also touches on pests to watch for and practical benefits of soilless cultivation. The episode includes practical cultivation notes and mentions Utrema’s fertilizers, biostimulants and biopesticides suited to cardoon production, plus a reminder to follow and review the podcast. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Mère Brazier – Mathieu Viannay Takao Takano – Takao Takano Le Neuvième Art – Christophe Roure Ombellule – Tabata Mey & Ludovic Mey Les Terrasses de Lyon – John Léon L’Atelier des Augustins – Nicolas Guilloton Prairial – Gaëtan Gentil Au 14 Février (Vieux Lyon) – Tsuyoshi Arai Têtedoie – Christian Têtedoie Burgundy by Matthieu – Matthieu Girardon Miraflores – Carlos Camino Rustique – Maxime Laurenson Michael Straumietis – Advanced Nutrients Lawrence Brooke – General Hydroponics William Texier – Terra Aquatica Noucetta Kehdi – Terra Aquatica William Van De Zwaan – House & Garden Nutrients Remo Colasanti – Remo Nutrients Sandra Colasanti – Remo Nutrients Steven Betts – GreenPlanet Nutrients Justin Cooper – GreenPlanet Nutrients Jay Jackson – Advanced Hydroponics of Holland Treg Bradley – Botanicare Stuart Dvorin – Hydrofarm Bill Toler – Hydrofarm John Lindemann – Hydrofarm Giles Gunstone – Growth Technology Greg Jarvis – Bluelab Jono Jones – Bluelab Jason Ralph-Smith – AutoPot Watering Systems Daniel Wilson – Current Culture H2O Kip Andersen – SuperCloset Eric Lang – ZipGrow Nate Storey – Bright Agrotech Kevin Jakiela – Just Vertical Conner Tidd – Just Vertical Ryan Chappell – Alien Hydroponics Louis Belloin – Techponics Adam Dixon – Phytoponics Luke Parkin – Phytoponics David Schmidmayr – Plagron Nutrients Jetze De Raad – Biobizz Luis Pinheiro – Biobizz Robert Higgins – Emerald Harvest Sharon Higgins – Emerald Harvest David Pratt – Emerald Harvest Gareth Hopcroft – Ecothrive Noah Miller – Black Dog LED Dima Chernobylski – GrowDirector Taisiya Jacobson – Pure Greens James Fleet – Bloemteknik Ted Tanner – Growlink David Holmes – Growlink Idan Avitan – Growee Controls Willy Winer – FoxFarm Jair Velleman – Gavita Jonathan Edwards – BudBox Erik H. – Secret Jardin Mike Kuma – Mills Nutrients Steve Webb – Plant Magic John Molyneux – Nutriculture Mike Biggs – CX Horticulture Kevin Richardson – Organic Plant Magic Tony – Hydrotops Steve Palmer – Bio Diesel Nutrients Mandy Jarvis – Bluelab Christian Long – Current Culture H2O Cheryl Wilson – Current Culture H2O Callie Seaman – Shogun Fertilisers Matej – Shogun Fertilisers Mark Benson – Plant Magic John Smith – Hydroeden Fran – Fran’s Hydroponics Ian – Critical Mass Systems Colin – Critical Mass Systems John Ramsey – Biobizz

Dr. Russell Sharp shares a practical hack to dramatically reduce pesticide and biocontrol costs by culturing predatory mites on bran or pollen. This method lets growers seed a small container with purchased predatory mites, grow their prey mites on a feedstock, and maintain a self-sustaining predatory population to protect crops. Key steps and precautions: buy untreated bran from an animal feed store, seed a small sealed container with purchased mites, keep warm with slight moisture, rotate harvests (use ~80% for release, keep ~20% to restart), and avoid storing bran near human food or large open volumes to prevent infestations. Works for leaf and soil predators and can be scaled from houseplants to large farms. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/lime-sulphur/ Roland De Jonghe – Biobest Group Silvia Todorova – Anatis Bioprotection Claude Robert – Anatis Bioprotection Don Elliott – Applied Bio-nomics Brian Spencer – Applied Bio-nomics José Vanzeler de Melo – Agronologica Patrick Charlot – Bioline AgroSciences David Ben-Zvi – BioBee Sde Eliyahu Moshe Sagiv – BioBee Sde Eliyahu Arnold Yasin – BioBee Sde Eliyahu Octávio Peres Neto – Biotrop Fábio Passos – Biotrop Fernando Reis – Biotrop Keith Jones – Certis Biologicals Robert G. Bouseman – Certis Biologicals Nicolas Gombault – M2i Life Sciences Philippe Guerret – M2i Life Sciences Marc Guillon – M2i Life Sciences Ted C. Jones – BioWorks Lorin R. Buhle Jr. – BioWorks Peter Quiring – A&L Biologicals Adrian Van Wyk – Real IPM Kenya Louise Labuschagne – Real IPM Kenya Paulo J. Freitas – Bug Agentes Biológicos Ruy F. Sampaio – Bug Agentes Biológicos Eric Johnson – Beneficial Insectary Doug Morrison – Beneficial Insectary Bill Grant – Rincon-Vitova Insectaries Patricia H. Hunt – Rincon-Vitova Insectaries Andreas Zimmermann – Andermatt Biocontrol Martin Andermatt – Andermatt Biovet Klaus Wyss – Biotop Axel Decourtye – Biotop Hans Peter Naef – Biohelp Jürgen Schmutterer – Biohelp Marcelo Poletti – Promip Ricardo Machione – Promip Ricardo Madureira – Koppert Biological Systems Brazil Fernando de Oliveira – Koppert Biological Systems Brazil Ken Ricker – Natural Insect Control Jim Bruce – Natural Insect Control Gavin F. Copping – Biological Services John Fien – Biological Services Mark Brownbridge – BioFungitek Phil Garrity – BioFungitek Christian Koch – E-nema Ralf-Udo Ehlers – E-nema Ravi K. Starzl – AEF Global Robert Masella – AEF Global Shachar Zehavi – Groundwork BioAg

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how to keep hydroponic solutions pH-stable, the role of balanced nitrates and ammonium, and how chemical buffers prevent pH swings. The episode also covers other pH drivers, including microbial activity, sugary additives, water hardness and plant exudates, and offers practical tips for consistent fertigation management. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Howard M. Resh – CuisinArt Hydroponic Farm Neil Willey – University of the West of England, Bristol Chungui Lu – Anglia Ruskin University Tony Ryan – University of Sheffield Eleni Stavrinidou – Linköping University Desire Djidonou – Texas A&M University–Commerce Genhua Niu – Texas A&M AgriLife Research Shuyang Zhen – Texas A&M AgriLife Research Omar Almaghrabi – Plant Factory Cornwall Paul Myers – Farm Urban Jens Thomas – Farm Urban Irving Fain – Bowery Farming Stuart Oda – Alesca Life Kimbal Musk – Square Roots Tobias Peggs – Square Roots Sriram Gopal – Future Farms Tristan Fischer – Fischer Farms Gary Grinspan – Future Crops Adam Dixon – Phytoponics Louis Belloin – Techponics Vivek Raj – Panama Group Kevin Jakiela – Just Vertical Robert Carlson – Growspace Farm Gary Lazarski – MightyVine Geoffrey Smith – Growponics Ryan Chappell – Alien Hydroponics Vijwal Vas – Green Monkey Farms Calvin Aranha – Krop AI Dara Govand Sherwani – Cihan University – Erbil Ted Caplow – New York Sun Works Alex Fisher – Saturn Bioponics David Rosenberg – AeroFarms Arama Kukutai – Plenty Viraj Puri – Gotham Greens Eric Haley – Gotham Greens Kate Hofman – GrowUp Farms Mike Hedges – GrowUp Farms Erez Galonska – Infarm Osnat Michaeli – Infarm Guy Galonska – Infarm Brad McNamara – Freight Farms Jon Friedman – Freight Farms Taisiya Jacobson – Pure Greens Robert Colangelo – Green Sense Farms Paul Sellew – Little Leaf Farms Neil Mattson – Cornell University Controlled Environment Agriculture A.J. Both – Rutgers University Murat Kacira – University of Arizona Controlled Environment Agriculture Center Chieri Kubota – The Ohio State University Controlled Environment Agriculture Mark Lefsrud – McGill University Erik Runkle – Michigan State University Roberto Lopez – Michigan State University Ricardo Hernández – North Carolina State University Gene Giacomelli – University of Arizona Controlled Environment Agriculture Center Lingying Zhao – The Ohio State University Noah Langenfeld – Utah State University Crop Physiology Laboratory Jacob Nickles – University of Sheffield Dylan Gwynn-Jones – Aberystwyth University John Doonan – National Plant Phenomics Centre Mark Kroggel – The Ohio State University Satoru Tsukagoshi – Chiba University Toyoki Kozai – Japan Plant Factory Association Henry Gordon-Smith – Agritecture Rob Laing – Farm.One Steven Dring – Growing Underground Richard Ballard – Growing Underground Michael DeGiglio – Village Farms International Casey Houweling – Houweling’s Tomatoes Eddy Badrina – Eden Green Technology Eric Lang – ZipGrow Eric Bergeron – ZipGrow Alex Tyink – Fork Farms Nona Yehia – Vertical Harvest Caroline Croft Estay – Vertical Harvest Penny McBride – Vertical Harvest Jonathan Webb – AppHarvest Mike Zelkind – 80 Acres Farms Tisha Livingston – 80 Acres Farms David Farquhar – Intelligent Growth Solutions Bruce Bugbee – Utah State University Crop Physiology Lab Nate Storey – Plenty Caleb Harper – MIT Media Lab Open Agriculture Initiative Eri Hayashi – Japan Plant Factory Association Sonia Lo – Crop One Holdings Paul Lightfoot – BrightFarms Leo F.M. Marcelis – Wageningen University & Research Eiji Goto – Chiba University Na Lu – Chiba University Michiko Takagaki – Chiba University Shigeharu Shimamura – Mirai Co. Don Taylor – AmplifiedAg Ellen Van de Velde – Ghent University Andrew Hare – Vertical Roots Matt Daniels – Vertical Roots Maarten Vandecruys – Urban Crop Solutions Tom Debusschere – Urban Crop Solutions Milan Kluko – Green Spirit Farms Bill Toler – Hydrofarm John Lindeman – Hydrofarm Jean-Pierre Coene – Urban Crop Solutions

Dr. Russell Sharp explores how the weight of hydroponic systems affects portability, stability, thermal buffering and practical uses—from classrooms and balconies to cruise ships and space missions.   He compares lightweight NFT setups (easy to move, low structural load) with heavy DWC reservoirs (thermal stability, theft resistance, backup water) and offers examples to help growers decide which approach fits their situation. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Carnival Corporation & plc Royal Caribbean Group Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) MSC Group (MSC Cruises) Disney Parks, Experiences and Products (Disney Cruise Line) Genting Hong Kong (defunct but previously major) Virgin Voyages (Virgin Group / Bain Capital) TUI Group Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Saga Cruises Viking Cruises Azamara (Sycamore Partners) Celestyal Cruises P&O Ferries / P&O Cruises Australia (various ownership historically) Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (Marriott International) Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) Marella Cruises (TUI Group) Star Clippers Ponant (Artémis Group) Silversea Cruises (owned by Royal Caribbean Group) Seabourn (Carnival Corporation) Regent Seven Seas Cruises (NCLH) Oceania Cruises (NCLH) Norwegian Cruise Line Oceania Cruises Royal Caribbean International Celebrity Cruises Silversea Cruises TUI Cruises (joint venture) Hapag-Lloyd Cruises (via TUI JV)Regent Seven Seas Cruises Carnival Corporation & plc Carnival Cruise Line Princess Cruises Holland America Line Seabourn Cunard Line Costa Cruises AIDA Cruises P&O Cruises (UK) P&O Cruises Australia Royal Caribbean Group MSC Cruises Explora Journeys Disney Cruise Line Viking Cruises Virgin Voyages Azamara Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Saga Cruises Marella Cruises Celestyal Cruises Ponant Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Star Clippers Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC

Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores how fast food chains, from McDonald’s to Subway and Taco Bell, consume enormous volumes of fresh produce and the opportunities this creates for hydroponic growers. The episode covers surprising consumption figures, examples of high-demand chains, tips on targeting alternative buyers beyond supermarkets, and a note on Eutrema Ltd’s expansion to sell fertilisers directly in Ireland. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ McDonald’s – Richard McDonald, Maurice McDonald Burger King – Keith J. Kramer, Matthew Burns KFC – Harland Colonel Sanders Subway – Fred DeLuca, Peter Buck Domino’s Pizza – Tom Monaghan, James Monaghan Pizza Hut – Dan Carney, Frank Carney Taco Bell – Glen Bell Wendy’s – Dave Thomas Starbucks – Jerry Baldwin, Zev Siegl, Gordon Bowker Dunkin’ – William Rosenberg Popeyes – Al Copeland Chick-fil-A – S. Truett Cathy Chipotle Mexican Grill – Steve Ells Five Guys – Jerry Murrell, Janie Murrell Dairy Queen – John Fremont McCullough, Alex McCullough, Sherb Noble Jack in the Box – Robert O. Peterson Carl’s Jr. / Hardee’s – Carl Karcher (Carl’s Jr.), Wilber Hardee (Hardee’s) Little Caesars – Mike Ilitch, Marian Ilitch Papa John’s – John Schnatter Tim Hortons – Tim Horton, Ron Joyce A&W – Roy W. Allen, Frank Wright Jimmy John’s – Jimmy John Liautaud Panera Bread – Ronald M. Shaich, Louis Kane, Ken Rosenthal Sonic Drive-In – Troy N. Smith Sr. In-N-Out Burger – Harry Snyder, Esther Snyder Culver’s – George Culver, Ruth Culver, Craig Culver Wingstop – Antonio Swad, Bernadette Fiaschetti Shake Shack – Danny Meyer Nando’s – Fernando Duarte, Robert Brozin Pret A Manger – Jeffrey Hyman; Julian Metcalfe, Sinclair Beecham Greggs – John Gregg Wagamama – Alan Yau Costa Coffee – Bruno Costa, Sergio Costa Hungry Jack’s – Jack Cowin Red Rooster – Peter Kailis, Theo Kailis Oporto – António (Antonio) Cerqueira Grill’d – Simon Crowe Guzman y Gomez – Steven Marks, Robert Hazan Zambrero – Sam Prince Lord of the Fries – Mark Koronczyk, Amanda Leigh Walker Jollibee – Tony Tan Caktiong Leon – John Vincent, Henry Dimbleby, Allegra McEvedy Vapiano – Kent Hahne, Gregor Gerlach, Klaus Rader, Mark Korzilius Telepizza – Leopoldo Fernández Pujals Nordsee – Adolf Vinnen MOS Burger – Satoshi Sakurada Boost Juice – Janine Allis Muffin Break – Bob Nelson Pie Face – Wayne Homschek, Betty Fong Hell Pizza – Warren Powell, Callum Davies, Stuart McMullin

Dr. Russell Sharp makes the case for bootstrapping hydroponic businesses instead of taking big external investment, arguing that self-funding preserves control, motivation, creativity and long-term sustainability. He explains how serendipitous innovation, family-owned advantages, and low-cost organic marketing let smaller operations grow responsibly and adaptively, offering practical examples and encouraging listeners to consider independent, profit-driven paths to scale. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Dave Chen Rory Sutherland Ogilvy  Gantt Charts Dragon's Den Shark Tank Listing on Stock Market PLC Alan Sugar The Apprentice  Adam Neumann WeWork Elizabeth Holmes Steve Jobs Travis Kalanick Adam Neumann Andrew Mason Jack Dorsey Noah Glass Jerry Yang Eduardo Saverin Martin Eberhard Parker Conrad Paul Graham Y Combinator  Warren Buffett Charlie Munger Benjamin Graham Peter Lynch Ray Dalio George Soros Carl Icahn John Templeton Philip Fisher Stanley Druckenmiller Peter Thiel   

Dr. Russell Sharp breaks down a candid interview with Equilibrium Capital's Dave Chen on the challenges of financing and scaling controlled environment agriculture (CEA). He covers why large capital requirements, post‑COVID funding shifts, and supermarket relationships make leafy‑green CEA a high‑risk, high‑scale business. The episode also explores niche crop opportunities, the power of cooperatives and branding, and the "holy trinity" of operator, grower and retail partner needed to succeed — plus how Eutrema can help with fertilisers and biostimulants for CEA growers. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Little Leaf, Revol Greens, and Perfection Fresh Hortidaily Horticulture Week  

Dr. Russell Sharp explains how to use store-bought seeds, rhizomes and tubers—like spelt, mung beans, turmeric, ginger, galangal, sweet potatoes and more—as propagation material for hydroponic crops and microgreens. He covers practical tips (avoid roasted seeds, look for buds, and watch for disease risks), nutrient considerations for rhizomes, and money-saving business ideas such as producing sweet potato slips. The episode balances low-cost DIY propagation techniques with cautions about viruses, aflatoxins and when to prefer certified seed stock. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Jamaican Sprinters Chinese Yams Sweet Potato Taro Eddoe Turmeric Ginger  

Dr. Russell Sharp explores recent research showing that hyperspectral leaf scans combined with machine learning can predict cannabinoid concentrations in legal cannabis before harvest, and outlines a new technique that could let standard smartphone cameras act like hyperspectral sensors using a reference card and software. The episode covers practical applications for growers and breeders; from pre‑selling crops and ensuring hemp THC compliance to rapidly screening seedlings, and considers how these tools could be brought together in a future smartphone app. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/biostimulants/slugger/   Compolytics fan leaf hyperspectral reflectance (FLHR) University of Adelaide's Dr Aaron Phillips Purdue University researcher Young Kim Semin Kwon of the Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering  James Hutton Institute Dundee

Dr. Russell Sharp explores how widespread use of GLP‑1 weight‑loss drugs (soon available orally) could reduce overall calorie intake and shift demand across crop types. He outlines the likely big losers (corn/maize, soybeans, sugar, palm oil) and relative winners (pulses, fibre‑rich fruits and vegetables, premium proteins), as well as crops likely to remain stable (rice, wheat, tubers) and non‑food crops largely unaffected. The episode discusses implications for hydroponics and horticulture, potential changes in the food and leisure industries, and cautions about drug side effects and broader societal impacts. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/ Liraglutide Victoza,  Saxenda  Semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy Tirzepatide Mounjaro  Robbie Williams, Greggs the baker, McDonalds, KFC, Wendy's, Chick-fil-a, chipotle, beyond meat, impossible foods, subway, waitrose, tesco, sainsbury's, asda, aldi, lidl, hyrox, crossfit, turf games, park run, personal trainers, david lloyd gyms, jd sports, jd gyms, virgin active, vitality insurance, 

Dr. Russell Sharp explores a controversial strategy where entire growing regions pause production for 20–30 days to break pest life cycles — using crop removal, soil solarization and biological controls. He compares past field-crop proposals to recent plans in Almería to tackle thrips and discusses the economic pain, possible aid, and whether coordinated shutdowns could work for other crops. The episode weighs practical challenges, examples from rapeseed and protected crops, and asks listeners to consider if collective action can realistically eliminate stubborn pests or diseases. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Andrés Iniesta, Xavi, Sergio Ramos, Carles Puyol, Iker Casillas, lamine yamal, 

Dr. Russell Sharp dives into the unique world of vanilla: an orchid vine that requires delicate, manual pollination outside its native range, long development times, and careful curing. Learn why vanilla farming is labor-intensive, how hydroponic tower systems are being used, and what breeders are doing to improve resilience and pollination. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Ice cream Custard Madagascar Indonesia Nepal India

Dr. Russell Sharp explores plants and crops that tolerate very alkaline soils and how that knowledge applies to hydroponic systems. The episode covers common tolerant crops (barley, sugar beet, cotton, sorghum, alfalfa, buffalo/Bermuda grass) and highly tolerant species like Atriplex as a possible spinach substitute in high‑pH water. Practical tips include expected pH ranges, when alkalinity and salinity overlap, and suggestions for experimenting with gardener's orache (Atriplex) in hydroponics. Contact the host for advice on adapting fertigation and crop choices to alkaline conditions. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/  

In this short episode Dr. Russell Sharp explores which crops naturally prefer acidic conditions and explains why, when grown hydroponically, they are typically kept around pH 5.0–5.5 rather than the much lower soil pH they prefer. He covers examples like blueberries, cranberries, pineapple, tea and potatoes, and explains the roles of nutrient availability, soil biology and fertilizer practicality. Dr. Sharp also teases the next episode contrasting acid-loving (ericaceous) plants with alkaline-loving (calcicole) species. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Host Dr. Russell Sharp explores why some hydroponic systems use large grow media slabs (like rockwool) while others rely on bare-root NFT with small plugs, explaining the advantages and drawbacks for crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and herbs. The episode also includes a special offer: UK-based professional growers can request free samples of selected Eutrema biostimulants and biopesticides (pay £4.95 postage) via this link: https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/free-samples-for-professional-users-hidden-page/

In this episode Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily explores the rising use of hydroponics to grow avocados in Mexico. He explains the common systems (air pots, coco, drip irrigation), the reasons growers are switching, and the practical challenges of a perennial crop. Key topics include temperature and frost sensitivity, drainage and Phytophthora root rot, nutrient and pH needs, the unusual A/B flowering pollination system, pruning and spacing, and the art of harvesting and ripening. The episode ends with a lighthearted AI tool demo. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/    Claudia Sheinbaum, Chicharito, Raúl Jiménez

Dr. Russell Sharp explores experimental research on growing peanuts hydroponically, summarizing NASA studies and university trials using deep water culture (DWC) and nutrient film technique (NFT). He explains the peanut life cycle—flowering, peg (gynophore) formation, and pod development—and why pegging into a moist zone or specially designed trays is critical. The episode covers nutrient needs (especially calcium), aeration, potential water savings compared with soil, and the challenges of commercial production. It highlights peanut hydroponics' experimental status, possible benefits for water-limited farming, and opportunities for custom fertilizer development. https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/   Planters, Jimmy Carter,