Update: I'll post a few pics of the new cage process, then completed photos.
Step 1: Wash everything down really well and let dry. Put the EMPTY cage on whatever stand you are going to use. It will be crazy heavy with everything in it. I secured the background in place with just a few dabs of aquarium silicone.
Step 2: Add the layers. I did 1-inch deep (about 4lbs) of hydroton balls (clay drainage pebbles), a layer of drain mesh to separate the clay balls from the soil, and about 4-inches of soil. The soil was a damp, handpicked mix of 2 parts soil to 1 part cocofiber. Rinse the clay balls first. They look like cocopuffs. Try not to eat them.
(Note the highly scientific measuring device. Don't tell the hubby.)
Step 3. Prep the plants for transplanting. I am using little peat pots to give them plants some stability until their roots can grow into the potting soil. I trimmed the pots to match the depth of the soil. Pack the soil in around the plants.
Step 4: Install the moss. I bought some live moss, gave it a few damp days to get rehydrated, then carefully unfolded the sheet (it comes in a big sheet) and gently pressed it into the damp soil.
Step 5: Add some Frog related decorations like a cork tube and water bowl, vines and sticks if you have room but I left a lot of jumping space.
Step 6: Wait. This is the hard part. I let the viv sit for 2 weeks with daily mistings and a grow light to try to get everything established. Probably should have waited longer, but everything including the moss is doing well so far. Add springtails and other clean up crew fauna.
Step 7: Add the frog! Clarence was not happy with the transition, but he will adjust. Hopeful more room will improve his quality of life and make him safe, happy, and healthy.
I also have a 2.0 UVB light on his cage on a 7-7 schedule. He's in a dark corner, and adding the light has really seemed to improve his appetite and sleeping cycles.
Now Farva doesn't care, as long as the snacks continue.
