My 6 year old Sulcata lives outdoor most of the year in Houston, TX in about a 250 sq ft area. The grass didn't last long and my exposed clay soil is a sloppy mess. I have tried various substrates including hay, hardwood mulch, and potting soil. I am considering a mix of cypress mulch/coco coir but I don't like the idea of it ethically and the hot weather here will dry it out quickly and make it hydrophobic. I am almost certain the answer lies in a mixture of substrates and was wondering if anyone here had suggestions. Thanks!
Sulcata Outdoor Substrate
- Thread starter gonzotronn
- Start date
Substrate is not necessary out doors. The tortoise can live on the native dirt.
What size is your tortoise? They all grow at different rates, so the age doesn't tell us the size.
Thanks for the quick reply, Tom. "He" is about 14" x 10" and 15 lbs.
I understand substrate isn't needed but I often walk in this area and dislike how slippery the clay is. I also have trouble getting grass seeds to be successful because the ground dries out so quickly in the summer. The third reason is for aesthetics; I'd prefer some type of substrate that is uniform as I do have an HOA that I'm sort of hiding from.
I understand substrate isn't needed but I often walk in this area and dislike how slippery the clay is. I also have trouble getting grass seeds to be successful because the ground dries out so quickly in the summer. The third reason is for aesthetics; I'd prefer some type of substrate that is uniform as I do have an HOA that I'm sort of hiding from.
Megatron's Mom
Well-Known Member
Cypress mulch is pretty cheap at HD. I use it in my indoor enclosures and the area for my blueberry bushes.
Hmmm... This is outside of my area of expertise. @Markw84 has recently been making pastures. I'll bet he will know how to "amend" your clay and make better but still safe.
