Peat???? Problems

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Lee31

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Hi All

I am acquiring some beautifull marbled and carnifex adults that are currently cooling...I have full cooling setups ready, (moss, bark etc, ) but cannot buy peat anywhere, due to environmental control on peat harvesting...I dont want to buy a similar soil and find its unsuitable for newts, i.e. additives, john innes etc,.
So what is the nearest type of soil to almost match the qualities of peat without any effect on the newts...?


Lee
 
The caudata page said to use potting compost. Can you get that?
 
Potting soil is based on peat in most countries. This is not available in the UK (for very good reasons that more countries should follow)
Partially decomposed leaf litter is suitable, this closely resembles forest floors. It should not contain needles.
 
I would not use peat - if you search the forum you will find many threads discussing the acidic pH of peat as a substrate which can lead to problems in caudates. I would use 'organic' topsoil i.e., free of any chemical additives, fertilizers, perlite, etc (not potting soil). This is available in the US (and I would assume in the UK) in most garden stores. As you also need moisture retentive capacity, I would consider mixing the soil with coco-fiber which is available as blocks that are reconstituted with water.
 
B and Qs own brand of peat free compost, made from composted bark.
I keep my marbleds and kaiseri on it and they are thriving.
I sift threw compost with my hands and break up any lumps, you sometime get a very small piece of glass or plastic, just throw that away (a small sive is probably easier)
Excellent and cheap substrate once sifted!

Martin
 
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