Substrate

[Louisa Rudland]

Hi,

So I wanted to get a new substrate for my Russian tortoise.
Currently using REPTILE pellet substrate. I don't really want to use sand as I'm aware of the health issues it causes.
(From the UK)

Thanks.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Can you post a photo of "reptile pellets"?
You need something that can hold humidity like bark or coco coir.
Yes. Don't use sand.

 

[Jodie]

Coco coir is great. I Love it. For larger tortoises I put a layer of Coco husk or Orchid bark on top.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

If you're using the pellets in your avatar, It's about the opposite of what you need.

 

[Conor Belton]

I have heard the you can use most types of dirt and top soil that do not have pesticides.

 

[Linhdan Nguyen]

My go to is coco coir ! I LOVE IT. Holds moisture, but will dry up accordingly, it's cheap, and easy to spot clean.

 

[KevinGG]

I'm not sure what is available in the U.K., but I use either plain top soil from my yard or fine grade orchid bark. Keepers out east seem to really love cypress mulch as a substrate also. Personally, I prefer dirt straight from the yard the best. You can mix this with other substrates if your soil is unpleasant. Whatever you choose, the key is to have the top layer dry and the layer beneath damp. Not sopping wet, but you don't want it to be too dusty and you want it to hold its shape somewhat. The damp layer will also host many organism that will help break down waste and left over food. This is called "bio-active substrate."