Substrate Question - Aspen + Plantation Soil?

[Toria Dawn]

Hey guys. I have another substrate question. Would it work to put down plantation soil (a few inches) for humidity, and have aspen shavings on top of that for burrowing and fun for the skink? Sorry, silly question but just wondering if anyone has tried this. I'm planning to buy aspen shavings next week but kind of want a natural base for the bottom of the tank, and the plantation soil has been so good for humidity. Plus then when he poops, it won't drop down and get smeared all over the bottom of the tank, lol! Thanks!!

[Dakota]

A lot of people mix substrates.. best of both worlds. I would lean toward coconut coir + cypress mulch, though.. but that's me.

[Susann]

There is nothing wrong with trying it. Especially since many of us would like to know how it works for you.
Does he burrow in the soil now? Because if he does, it may not stay in nice "layers" for long. Not that it would necessarily have to, just saying; they are masters at wrecking all our nicely thought-out arrangements.

[Sarikazam]

I tried using a layer of coconut fibre with a layer of aspen shavings on top. It didn't take long for the skinks to blend them together nicely.
The only thing I would worry about is the aspen shavings getting moldy from being next to a moist substrate, but it might be fine if it isn't too damp.

[Toria Dawn]

So I decided to try the aspen and soil, here's some pics before he starts digging it up an mixing it all together, lol! I'll keep you posted on any problems (mould) I have or if it otherwise works out well. It was super cheap!!!