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