Criptic's Page On Herps - Enclosures - Woodland

appropriate for tropical or temperate forest enclosures.

This mix will simulate the organic layer of decomposing plant debris found on the floor of forested areas. I will also simulate the soil collected in rock crevasses and in large epiphytic plant clumps. Most tropical houseplants and other plants from tropical areas will thrive in this mix.

This mix will keep it's physical qualities and functions for about 2 to 3 years, if you maintain your enclosure. It can be used as an incubation medium within the enclosure as well.

Contents:
2 parts partially composted leaves (live (scrub) oak leaves are an excellent choice).
2 parts medium grade orchid bark, Xerimulch or other similar bark product
1 part ground coconut husk fiber, or 1/2 part coconut husk fiber and 1/2 part ground palm.

Soak the coconut husk block until it falls apart and becomes fluffy. Rinse it, and squeeze it out till it is moist but not wet. Mix the components together. Add 3 tablespoons of Cottonseed meal per gallon. Add 1 tablespoon of blood meal per gallon. Add 1 tablespoon of Ironite per gallon. Add 1 teaspoon of agricultural lime per gallon.

You may also use a complete organic fertilizer such as Bandini Nutri-rite instead of the above fertilizers. If you use an organic fertilizer, use half of the amount recommended.

Barely moisten the mix, and let it sit in a container for a day. Your mix should always be slightly damp, but not wet. Never use dry planting mix, it will be difficult to moisten by watering.

For extra "Chunky" mix

Some plants require a mix that is exceptionally airy and has very good drainage.

contents:
1 part basic forest mix (above)
2 parts coconut husk chips.

Just mix the contents together, and lightly mosten them. Let the mix sit in a container for a day before use.

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