substrate question

[chibisan]

I've been looking up various substrate mixes and it seems like they all have leaf litter mixed in them. Some sites say to get it from the forest to provide the vivarium with the bacteria. But what about if it's just the end of winter? Up here in Minnesota, there's no leaves on anything and pretty much all the ground is still pretty soggy. So what should I do?
Would trying to find some dried leaves serve the same purpose?

[jpstod]

Are you wanting leaf litter for the Soil to add in the Nutrients or For Hiding spots for Frogs?
If your looking to add Nutrients get some good Compost and mix it in. Then add Leaf litter on top. They will provide cover and then Nutrients as they breakdown.

[chibisan]

Mostly for nutrients. I'll have to go look for some compost...

[jpstod]

I make my own compost.

Any Good garden center should have Compost.
Our Parks department has a compost give away several times a year. I use compost in all of my Tanks and everything grows great. Also Add in some Earthworm, they will help keep the soil areated also and help compost stuff. Pillbugs and springtails are also vital in the mini-Ecosystem