Coconut coir and top soil?

[OurTommy]

Just a quick question.

Looking to change my Russian Tortoises current substrate from a soil/sand mix, to coconut coir and topsoil one.

Seems to be the best recommended one after reading much on here.

Just want to know if these 2 items are would be appropriate for the job, if so I shall buy tomorrow.

Coconut Coir - http://www.petsathome.com/shop/coco-coir-fibre-brick-by-monkfield-58706

Top soil - http://www.wilko.com/compost+composters/wilko-graded-top-soil-20l/invt/0339935


Thanks in advance.

 

[wellington]

Yes on the coir, just soak it in water to get it too expand. Then either let it dry some or squeeze out the extra water. The soil, yes, as long as it does not have any fertilizers or pesticides.

 

[OurTommy]

Yes on the coir, just soak it in water to get it too expand. Then either let it dry some or squeeze out the extra water. The soil, yes, as long as it does not have any fertilizers or pesticides.

Thank you very much.

Will be sorting that out tomorrow!

---

Yes on the coir, just soak it in water to get it too expand. Then either let it dry some or squeeze out the extra water. The soil, yes, as long as it does not have any fertilizers or pesticides.

Do I literally mix the 2 together once I have soaked and drained the coir?

 

[pfara]

Do I literally mix the 2 together once I have soaked and drained the coir?

Yes. The process is a bit messy but works well. Depending on the ratio you're using, you might have to pack it down after putting it in the enclosure.

 

[Greg T]

I use just coir and it works great, although it does dry out pretty quickly so I have to mix in water and mist it often.

 

[OurTommy]

I use just coir and it works great, although it does dry out pretty quickly so I have to mix in water and mist it often.

Failed to get some top soil today but the coconut coir did arrive.

So you recommend just using the coir on its own? Might just try that then.

Thank you