tortoise Resort
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As for cypress mulch, is it the mulch that any Carpenter has?Hello!
Usually fine grade (small pieces) orchid (fir) bark is used for the most tortoise species. It doesn't mold and hold humidity well enough. If buying from a garden center or nursery - make sure it doesn't have colorants or fertilizers. If it's made of pine bark - it should not have strong smell of a fresh pine, should smell more like a damp soil. Reptibark is one of the examples.
Next good option is cypress mulch, it holds moisture better than bark. However, a bit more messy, so I think, it's less suitable for hatchlings (it easily can get in food and water).
Third one is coco coir. It's the most messy of all and top layer gets dusty when dry.
Mixing substrates is not worth it. And if you want to put live plants in the enclosure better to put them in pots or trays.