Hydroponics on the Alkaline Edge: Crops That Cope with High pH
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/
--------
8:58
--------
8:58
Why Acid-Loving Crops Thrive at pH 5.5 in Hydroponics
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/
--------
5:54
--------
5:54
Rockwool vs Bare-Root NFT: When to Use Growing Media
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
--------
16:44
--------
16:44
Hydroponic Peanuts: Can We Grow Them Without Soil?
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,
Daily clips of hydroponic science throughout the whole of 2025
Presented by Dr Russell Sharp
Brought to you by the team behind Gold Leaf - seed to harvest with just one bottle of feed.
UK