Hi,

i have built Tetley's & Twiggy's outdoor enclosure and I have just a couple of questions:

1, Substrate - Do I need to use sand and top soil or will earth from the garden be ok?

2, My partner said that he didn't think it would be a good idea to put chicken wire underneath the earth as when they're digging they may break a claw (how vain he is!). Could this happen, if so what else can I use to make it dig proof?

Thanks,

Row

Hi Row,

I think I'd prefer that green plastic mesh stuff that you can grow vines up (sorry can't think what it's called, but it comes in a roll and is fairly robust, and has about 1" squares of space). The advantage that has over chicken wire, is that in time chicken wire will rust and break and could have sharp edges, and the plastic will last longer underground, I think. For substrate, ordinary garden soil will be fine (as long as it hasn't been treated with insecticides.

Nina

Hi Row

Garden soil will be fine for the substrate unless it is very thick and clayey.  I dont keep russians, but know that they are notorious escape artists <g> chicken wire is one option, and I know a lot of russian keepers use that sucessfully, it also allows good drainage, which is vitally important in any outdoor enclosure, especially if we have another summer like the last two!  As Nina has said, the plastic version will be longer lasting.  Another option is to dig the perimeter fence a good foot or so into the ground to prevent tunnelling.  If you need more inspiration, there are some good pictures in the photo gallery - it would be nice to see your enclosure once it is done too :)

all the best

Arlene TPG

Hi,

I think I know what you mean. The stuff you cover fruit trees and strawberry plants with like netting?  Great idea.

I've just the landscaping and the protective top to put on now so praying for good weather at weekend so I can get stuck in.  And don't worry about the photo's they'll be there as soon as I finish.

Rowan

Hi Row

I think the plastic mesh is a bit more heavy duty than netting, something a bit more like the stuff you put up for clematis to grow up - I will have a look and see if I can find some online.

Ive just heard that we may have snow down here in Hampshire for the weekend - I hope it is better where you are <g> looking forward to the photos.  If you would like any help with suggestions for torotise friendly plants, please dont hesistate to ask.

all the best

Arlene

Argh! Now I know what you mean a trip to garden centre only 2 mins up the road.  As for plants my other half has been sowing lots a tortoise friendly flowers in the garden.  And tonight I've beening digging up dandelion plants from a friends garden roots an all!  Surprising how many friends you have when you offer to weed for them!

R

LOL - you know you are a fully fledged tortoise keeper when you admire the weeds in your friend's gardens and not the flowers....

Arlene TPG

Not just friends gardens, it everywhere I go I'm constantly looking out for weeds!!!!

Hi
I get dizzy when I go out, constantly looking for weeds. My neighbour thinks it is hilarious that I dig up the weeds and plant them in my garden, and my garden is complete with tortoise friendly plants, it can look quite pretty, plus the wild plants encourage butterflys and bees which has to be a good thing!
I guess we wouldn't have it any other way.
Jane