Why is mesh required between substrate layers?

[c0ld]

Hi all,

I'm just wondering why the mesh is required between the substrate and drainage layers? I am not using a waterfall application with it.

Thanks
C

 

[Hilde]

If you're misting or spraying the substrate, eventually enough of it will fall down between the particles of the drainage layer. It can also end up there if the geckos dig around. Allowing the substrate to fall down there means it will absorb any standing water, causing it become waterlogged, and start stinking to high heaven. It also becomes a great breeding ground for bacteria and other pathogens.

Depending on what you're using for drainage, it could be a potential choking or impaction hazard. If nothing else, it doesn't necessarily look good.

The mesh barrier will help keep the substrate out of the drainage layer. It might not be perfect, but at least it can keep it separated for years, instead of the weeks it could take without a barrier.

I use fibre-glass window screen for my barriers, though some people use plastic needlepoint canvas, or other non-degrading mesh.

 

[CrestedRick]

I've used the exo terra bio drain mesh in my vivs and it does it's job. I've used the fiber glass screen in cork round planters that I've made in the past as well.

 

[Elizabeth Freer]

I use Easy Gardener's Landscape Fabric. It's black, lightweight, and allows water to pass through. It also does the job well.

 

[c0ld]

thank you for all suggestions so far. I'm going to have to tear up two of my vivariums, boil the clay balls, and start again. Happy to do this properly for the animal's sake!

Could I forgo the clay balls altogether for some of my smaller setups? Just a few inches of eco earth for example. Preference would be to plant directly in the substrate but could consider keeping these ones in pots

Thanks
C

 

[Aimless]

the roots will be healthier and the plants will live longer with a drainage layer, just like when you grow them in pots. you can do it without, but expect to swap out the plants more often.

 

[Elizabeth Freer]

Keep the clay drainage balls. They absorb moisture and enhance humidity without the negative effects of a wet or soggy substrate.

I use Hy Droton clay balls.

I keep sansevieria in plastic or terra cotta pots with drainage saucers. They are not planted directly in the substrate.

 

[c0ld]

Thank you to all

I will definitely keep the clay balls I have. I will need to boil them--I assume since a drainage layer wasn't used in the enclosure I purchased?

However, I have about 8 other vivariums I am looking to setup. The problem I am facing is that the hydro clay balls are quite expensive. I would need approx 50 litres of the stuff if I am going to fill up 2 inches worth per enclosure.

Since the plants aren't actually growing IN the medium, would aquarium gravel work?

Thanks
C

 

[Elizabeth Freer]

Best to boil new hydro clay balls to sterilize them and all. There's usually a lot of dust. I have a 16 quart stockpot for this...really! "Stone" soup. :lol:

For your smaller enclosures you could go with less than 2 inches. I've never used aquarium gravel to provide drainage.

 

[Melissa71]

The cheapest way I've found to purchase hydroton, is to go through a hydroponics store. There's one a few towns over from me, so I just buy a big bag. I'd do a google search and see if you can find a similar store near you.

 

[CrestedRick]

I use the LDL on this page.New England Herpetoculture LLC - Vivarium Substrates

 

[Elizabeth Freer]

I use the LDL on this page.New England Herpetoculture LLC - Vivarium Substrates

Nice resource, Rick!