Last Updated on 9 months by admin
Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make fantastic pets. They are easy to care for and have a gentle disposition, making them an excellent choice for first-time reptile owners. One of the key components of keeping a bearded dragon healthy and happy is providing them with a suitable habitat. A crucial element of this habitat is live plants. In this article, we will explore what live plants can go in a bearded dragon cage and why they are essential.
Bearded dragons are wonderful pets for reptile enthusiasts, and they need a proper and well-equipped environment to thrive. One significant aspect of setting up a bearded dragon’s habitat is adding live plants to create a natural habitat. Certain live plants are not only beneficial but also provide a beautiful aesthetic to the beardie’s cage. So, in this article, we will discuss some of the live plants that can go in a bearded dragon’s cage to create a healthy and beautiful environment for the little friend.
Understanding the Benefits of Live Plants
Live plants are beneficial to bearded dragons in many ways. They provide a natural environment that mimics their natural habitat, which can help reduce stress and promote overall health. Live plants also provide hiding places, which can help reduce anxiety and promote natural behaviors, such as climbing and burrowing.
Benefits of Live Plants
- Mimic natural habitat
- Reduce stress
- Promote overall health
- Provide hiding places
- Reduce anxiety
- Promote natural behaviors
Choosing the Right Plants
When choosing live plants for your bearded dragon’s cage, there are a few things to consider. First, you want to choose plants that are safe for your pet. Some plants can be toxic to bearded dragons, so it’s essential to do your research before adding any plants to their habitat.
Live plants are essential for creating a suitable habitat for bearded dragons. They provide a natural environment, reduce stress and anxiety, promote natural behaviors, and overall health. When choosing live plants, it’s important to select species that are safe and can thrive in the specific environment of the cage. With proper care and attention, live plants can provide numerous benefits to your bearded dragon without being difficult to maintain.
Safe Plants for Bearded Dragons
- Spider Plant
- Hibiscus
- Aloe Vera
- Pothos
- Jade Plant
- Rosemary
- Sage
- Thyme
Second, you want to choose plants that can survive in the type of environment you’re creating. Bearded dragons require a specific temperature and humidity level, so it’s essential to choose plants that can thrive in those conditions.
Plants that Can Survive in a Bearded Dragon Cage
Tips for Adding Live Plants to Your Bearded Dragon Cage
Once you’ve chosen the right plants for your bearded dragon’s cage, it’s essential to take the necessary steps to ensure they thrive. Here are a few tips for adding live plants to your bearded dragon cage:
Adding live plants to a bearded dragon’s cage can provide numerous benefits, including mimicking their natural habitat, reducing stress and anxiety, promoting natural behaviors, and improving overall health. When choosing plants, it’s important to select safe plants that can survive in the specific environment and monitor them regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation. Contrary to common misconceptions, live plants are not difficult to care for and can be a valuable addition to a bearded dragon’s habitat.
Tips for Adding Live Plants
- Choose plants that are safe and can survive in the environment you’re creating.
- Rinse plants thoroughly before adding them to the cage to remove any pesticides, dirt, or debris.
- Add plants gradually to allow your bearded dragon to get used to them.
- Monitor the plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation.
- Remove any dead or dying leaves or plants promptly.
Lighting Requirements for Live Plants
- Full-spectrum lighting required
- Place plants in a spot with direct sunlight or use a full-spectrum lighting system
Common Misconceptions About Live Plants in Bearded Dragon Cages
There are many misconceptions about adding live plants to a bearded dragon’s cage. One of the most common is that live plants are difficult to care for and require a lot of maintenance. While it’s true that live plants require some care, they are not as difficult to care for as many people think. With proper care and attention, live plants can thrive in a bearded dragon’s cage and provide numerous benefits.
Another common misconception is that live plants can be harmful to bearded dragons. While some plants can be toxic, there are many safe plants that can provide numerous benefits, as we have discussed in this article.
FAQs for what live plants can go in a bearded dragon cage
What are some live plants that can be used in a bearded dragon’s enclosure?
There are various species of live plants that are suitable for a bearded dragon’s enclosure, such as ficus, spider plants, hibiscus, and aloe vera. These plants provide shade, shelter, and enrichment for your pet, as well as improve air quality and aesthetics of the enclosure.
What types of plants should I avoid?
It is important to avoid toxic plants that may harm your bearded dragon, such as ivy, foxglove, daffodils, and oleander. These plants can cause health issues, such as digestive problems, respiratory issues, and even death. Additionally, it is important to avoid plants that are too delicate or sensitive to be kept in a bearded dragon’s enclosure.
How do I prepare live plants for my bearded dragon’s enclosure?
Before introducing live plants to your bearded dragon’s enclosure, remove any pesticides, fertilizers, or chemicals that may be harmful to your pet. Rinse the plants with water and let them dry before placing them in the enclosure. Make sure the plants are secured in the substrate or anchored in pots to prevent accidental ingestion or uprooting.
How do I maintain live plants in my bearded dragon’s enclosure?
To maintain live plants in your bearded dragon’s enclosure, ensure they are getting enough light, water, and nutrients. Adjust the lighting and watering schedule according to the species and size of the plants. Additionally, watch out for signs of pests, diseases, or rot, and remove any affected leaves or plants promptly.
Can live plants substitute the need for calcium supplements in a bearded dragon’s diet?
While live plants may contain some nutrients and minerals that are beneficial to a bearded dragon’s diet, they cannot substitute the need for calcium supplements. Bearded dragons require calcium supplementation, either through direct supplementation or feeding calcium-rich food items, to support bone health and prevent metabolic bone disease. Consult with a veterinarian or reptile specialist for specific dietary guidelines for your bearded dragon.
