Safe food for tortoise

Ridinaqha

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I just brought home my first pet Russian Tortoise. Though I have researched as much as I can I’m a little paranoid about what I can and can not feed her. I have my own garden that I grow strawberries, green peppers, squash, cucumbers and marigolds. I was wondering if these things can be fed to her and are safe. And I’m wondering more about the leaves of the plants then anything because I have tons of strawberry plants I don’t need.
 

dmmj

The member formerly known as captain awesome
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My Russians love strawberry leaves. Squash and cucumber leaves and flowers are also a good choice
 

Ridinaqha

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Thank you! I want to provide her with a nice variety and would like to be able to grow all her food myself
 

dmmj

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If you have room grape plant, hibiscus, rose of sharon, fruitless mulberry tree
 

RosemaryDW

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Welcome!

Just the leaves of strawberries though, no berries. :) she may not eat them right away but should get the hint availability.

You've got some great fiber and calcium in those squash and cucumber vines so that's a great start.

Some of the spicy chicories we often recommend are probably easier and cheaper to buy at the grocery store so I'd skip those.

What have you got growing in your yard, not just your garden? As long as it isn't full of pesticides, you'd be surprised at what may already be around you! You might even be lucky enough to have a weed patch!
 

Ridinaqha

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I know I have white clover everywhere, and I do believe I have dandelion in some places too.
 

Viola B

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I just brought home my first pet Russian Tortoise. Though I have researched as much as I can I’m a little paranoid about what I can and can not feed her. I have my own garden that I grow strawberries, green peppers, squash, cucumbers and marigolds. I was wondering if these things can be fed to her and are safe. And I’m wondering more about the leaves of the plants then anything because I have tons of strawberry plants I don’t need.
Welcome! Enjoy your Russian.
 

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