Tom's response to "Garden State Tortoise" Video

[Fluffy]

I feel we're finally get some answers. I've always believed there is something to benefit by learning what is actually causing the problems and I definitely know more now then I did. I wish this forum was more friendly to these types of conversations but it's not. Lot's of knowledge here if we were more open.

 

[Fluffy]

I'd liken substrate to growing media instead of to soil or dirt - even with adding sand, I keep my substrates closer to a media than to trying to replicate soil. I wouldn't use yard dirt or even bagged top soil (actual top soil not bagged mixes that call themselves top soil) because of the weight and it can turn muddy.

I think a mostly soilless mix is a good starting point. For bioactive substrates ABG mixes or similar are common.

Do you personally use ABG mixes?

 

[EppsDynasty]

I feel we're finally get some answers. I've always believed there is something to benefit by learning what is actually causing the problems and I definitely know more now then I did. I wish this forum was more friendly to these types of conversations but it's not. Lot's of knowledge here if we were more open.

Right On 100%
This was a VERY good thread for all to share and air there info, ya really can't beat that.
The TFO is still one hell of a place to be!

 

[mark1]

can anyone provide an x-ray of a sand impacted tortoise?

 

[jaizei]

Do you personally use ABG mixes?

I was making growing mixes before I'd heard of it so I don't follow it exactly. I play around with the quantities and include other items that aren't part of the original recipe.