Dr. Russell Sharp revisits fertilizer and biostimulant preservation—what shrinking, bloating, and floaty bits in bottles actually mean—and shares practical signs to watch for.

He then summarizes microgreen experiments: pea shoots performed well without fertiliser or growing media, wheatgrass responded strongly to low-dose feeding, and ongoing trials include spring onions and a seed coating to deter slugs.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/biostimulants/potassium-silicate-20-litres/

Dr. Russell Sharp of Hydroponics Daily exposes common and dangerous preservatives found in fertilizers and biostimulants, including formaldehyde, quaternary ammonium compounds (BAC50), copper sulfate, bronopol and silver.

He explains why growers should check product labels and safety data sheets, prefer food‑grade preservatives, and be aware of impacts on human health, plant uptake and beneficial microbes.

Practical tips include researching ingredient CAS/EC numbers, using reputable formulations, and choosing safer preservation strategies to protect crops and consumers.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why pouring liquidised food waste or adding uncomposted plant material to soil or lawns can harm plant growth. Microbes decomposing fresh organic matter use up available nitrogen, causing nutrient deficiency and chlorosis in plants, and the practice can also attract pests like rodents and rabbits.

Advice: always compost organic waste first or boost nitrogen levels if you must add fresh material, and avoid leaving food scraps on borders to prevent pest problems.

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Dr. Russell Sharp revisits previous claims about ICL (formerly Israel Chemicals Limited), clarifying that there is no evidence they manufacture white phosphorus but detailing findings that ICL supplies white phosphorus to the US Army and onward to Israel, who use White Phosphorus against civilian populations.

The episode also examines ICL’s sponsorship ties to an IDF battalion that has been filmed burning greenhouses in Gaza, the high proportion of staff serving in the Israeli military.

https://eutrema.co.uk/

Dr. Russell Sharp examines pseudocereals—non-grass crops like quinoa, amaranth, chia, buckwheat and fat hen—and their potential as hydroponic microgreens.

The episode covers germination experiments, nutritional benefits (reduced phytic acid, increased vitamins) and the promise of microgreens for improving human and animal nutrition worldwide.

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Dr. Russell Sharp explores Revoponics, a rotating vertical hydroponic system installed at Queen's University. He compares it to earlier drum-based designs, explains how the rotating towers can improve harvesting, lighting efficiency and space use, and discusses potential benefits for local food production and research.

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Dr. Russell Sharp examines claims that ICL (AKA Israel Chemicals Ltd), a major supplier to horticulture and sports turf industries, manufactures white phosphorus used in incendiary munitions reportedly deployed over civilian areas.

The episode outlines the humanitarian concerns raised by UN findings, explains why this matters to growers and industry workers, and invites debate and information from listeners and journalists.

https://eutrema.co.uk/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains horizontal netting (scrog nets) for hydroponic growers and how these nets support vines and stems across crops like cannabis, tomatoes, cucumbers, chrysanthemums, and melons.

Learn the benefits—better support, reduced lodging, improved airflow, and easier maintenance—plus practical tips on DIY vs. store-bought nets and when to use horizontal vs. vertical supports.

https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/liquid-gold-unique-complete-fertiliser/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains what acid rain is, how sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides form strong acids, and why this matters for plant health both outdoors and in hydroponic systems.

The episode covers direct leaf damage, nutrient leaching (especially calcium), soil and root impacts, and why acidic foliar sprays can mimic acid rain and harm your crops.

Practical advice: be aware of air-quality sources, test the pH of foliar sprays before use, and avoid applying highly acidic products to leaves.

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Dr. Russell Sharp explores unusual hydroponic projects, focusing on the Hengshui Vertical Farm in China — a multi-story, LED-assisted urban farming innovation center with rooftop greenhouses, classrooms, and water-recycling and passive cooling systems.

He also covers a Canadian converted warship now growing produce in its hull, discussing the social, logistical and regulatory challenges and the potential for remote communities to gain access to fresh food through hydroponics.

https://www.verticalfarmdaily.com/article/9762351/four-story-vertical-farm-integrating-cultivation-research-and-education-opens-in-china/

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