Grass Me Up

Dr. Russell Sharp explains what fairy rings are, why they become visible after droughts, and how their hydrophobic exudates and waxy residues can cause grass death and uneven growth on lawns and sports turf.
He outlines practical management: maintain irrigation, reduce thatch, use wetting agents, consider spot applications of lime sulfur as an organic soil sterilant, and reseed damaged areas. Fungicides are of limited use for soil fungi, so targeted, cautious treatments and cultural control are recommended.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/pesticides-organic/lime-sulphur/

Dr. Russell Sharp takes a deep dive into flooding and waterlogging across gardens, farms and sports turf—explaining causes like clay pans and heavy rain, the physiological damage to roots and crops, common symptoms such as patchy chlorosis and shallow rooting, and secondary risks like nutrient loss and pathogen spread.
The episode also covers practical treatments and prevention: why you shouldn’t work wet soil, mechanical drainage and mole ploughing, liming and gypsum, organic matter and mycorrhizae, plus Utrema’s liquid gypsum solution that can improve drainage without digging—useful for lawns, golf courses, allotments and arable land.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/soil-conditioners/liquid-gypsum/

Dr. Russell Sharp explains why pouring liquidised food waste or adding fresh, uncomposted plant material to soil or lawns can harm plant growth. Microbes breaking down this material consume available nitrogen, causing nitrogen deficiency and chlorosis in your plants, and fresh food waste can also attract pests like rodents and rabbits.
The episode advises always composting organic matter or significantly increasing nitrogen if you must add uncomposted material, and warns about common sources such as grass clippings, manure, and mulch.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/thatch-degrader/

Dr Russell Sharp explains what thatch is, how it builds up, and why it harms turf. He covers causes like rapid growth, drought and the harmful effects of overusing iron and copper products.
The episode reviews control methods — scarifying, raking, microbial and enzyme treatments — and the limitations of some commercial products.
Russ outlines Eutrema’s Thatch Degrader, how it stimulates native microbes to break down thatch, practical results, and pricing for lawn and sports-turf use.
https://eutrema.co.uk/shop/fertiliser/thatch-degrader/

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/

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Grass Me Up, a podcast dedicated to turf science and agronomy. Hosted by Dr. Russell Sharp, this series promises a deep dive into the world beneath our feet. Whether you're a professional groundskeeper, a lawn enthusiast, or simply fascinated by plant science, this podcast will enlighten you on everything from soil microbes to mower techniques. Discover how to handle common turf issues, explore practical lawn care strategies, and debunk myths surrounding the industry. Join us as we tackle intriguing topics that might change the way you view your backyard or sports field forever.
https://eutrema.co.uk/lawn-care