[ncc2015]

What have you found to be the best mix as for substrate? I'm hoping to get an exo terra soon and my first PDFs so it would be very helpful to find out those who are more experienced which type of substrate that does very well in a terrarium setup.

 

[Golden State Mantellas]

http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/parts-construction/70538-genuine-abg-vs-abg-equivalent.html

http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/parts-construction/63915-truth-about-abg-mix.html

If you need any additional ideas, type the keyword "substrate" into the search feature

 

[Pumilo]

I believe calcium based clay substrates to be the best. http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/parts-construction/63732-clay-substrate-how.html
For those looking for a simpler solution, I would say ABG mix as referenced above.

 

[ncc2015]

Thanks for the links I appreciate it. And I found the clay substrate very interesting. I would definitely try that if I have time to make it. Also do they sell ABG mix at shows?

 

[nschmitz06]

Yes they sell at shows, but even online it can be found for a decent price. I ordered a few other things to make use of the shipping fee (6$)

These have ABG, also check the vendor sponsors!
New England Herpetoculture - Home
Josh's Frogs - Largest online herps feeders and reptile supplies store

 

[ncc2015]

On herpetoculture the only thing I found under substrate was this:
New England Herpetoculture Vivarium Substrate Mix. Is that the same thing as ABG mix?

Yes they sell at shows, but even online it can be found for a decent price. I ordered a few other things to make use of the shipping fee (6$)

These have ABG, also check the vendor sponsors!
New England Herpetoculture - Home
Josh's Frogs - Largest online herps feeders and reptile supplies store

 

[MeiKVR6]

On herpetoculture the only thing I found under substrate was this:
New England Herpetoculture Vivarium Substrate Mix. Is that the same thing as ABG mix?

It's our twist on ABG. It's very similar (ingredients are nearly identical) and can be used exactly the same way. On our most recent substrate mix we chose to no longer use peat moss, since it can compact & break down over time. That being said both mixes are proven & work very well.

If you choose to make your own mix - be sure the "soil" component (peat, coconut fiber, or both) doesn't exceed 50% of the mix. More than that, and the mix will likely break down fairly quickly. You want a very "airy" soil that helps support both plants, microfauna, and beneficial bacteria. Soggy soils go anaerobic quickly and things get ugly fast. There's a ton of good info in this thread (already posted):

http://www.dendroboard.com/forum/parts-construction/70538-genuine-abg-vs-abg-equivalent.html

 

[PeanutbuttER]

I smile on the inside when threads I started get reposted

ABG is the closest thing I think you'll be able to find to a "magic bullet". Works well and is very easy to just have the mix shipped to you. From there it's very plug and play, just pour it in the viv.

 

[ncc2015]

MeiKVR6 : Thank you very much for clearing that up. Very informative.

PeanutbuttER : I have heard great reviews about it everywhere. Where do you purchase yours from joshsfrogs?