Other Turtle Discussion :: Real grass?

[N4784N R4613]

When I get my next set-up (very for off I just can't wait until then to ask lol) I am going to build an above tank basking area. I was just wondering if I could plant sod in the basking area? Do you think they spray the sod with anything that will harm turtles(before any one buys it like bug spray etc etc)? Is it okey for them to eat grass? will they just dig it all up? Will the dirt, sod, and basking tiles be too heavy to set on top of an all glass tank?

Thanks in advance,

Nathan Radle.

[industrial_girl_2000]

I have never seen a turtle eat grass, but it doesn't mean they won't.

The sod you buy is sprayed with lots of weed killer; that's why it looks so perfect so I would stay away from that. Honestly, I wouldn't put sod in the basking area because pieces of it is most likely going to end up in the water (like flowers in a vase of water...those rot too if you have leaves in the water). Grass in the water rots really fast and will make the water smell. Best to just stick with a clean basking area with no plants so you can maintain the overall cleanliness of the tank. Cleanliness is one of the most important things you can maintain for your turtle so they don't get sick. They can get rather messy and you won't want any additional mess-causing problems (unless you don't mind changing the water every day!).

If you want some greenery in the water, stick with pond plants. Those won't rot in the water, they will add greenery, & your turtle can also snack on them!