Curious on plants for tiger salamander terrarium

[JenniferLynn]

I have a tiger salamander in the middle of metamorphosis, and so I'm trying to plan out his forever home. I have a 20gal long for him, and I'd like to create a terrarium that is as self sustainable as possible. Would I structure it as I would a terrarium without a mole salamander in it; with extra inches of soil (I know he needs at least 6)? Also, should I mix (a low pH) moss in with my coconut fibre, top soil blend to hold moisture? And finally, I'm looking for plant suggestions that are safe! These plants will be buried in their own pots, so not as much concern with hearty roots. Although, I would like to plant maybe a type of bonsai tree or hearty fern that doesn't get very big but would provide roots for digging amusement. And finally! Do I need to let this enclosure go through a nitrogen cycle before my sally goes in, similar to cycling a tank?

My knowledge on great plants for an enclosure such as this is minimal, and I'd like to get it close to right the first time! So please, use this thread as a place of discussion.. Because I would love any and all feedback! :frog:

 

[sde]

Your soil depth is great.
Here is a info sheet on substrates. Caudata Culture Articles - Vivarium Substrates
I don't have any suggestions on plants, other than saying that ferns are great. They look good, provide coverage, and really give the enclosure a natural look. Live mosses are also good, they make great areas for the salamander to hide and also make the enclosure look natural.
No, you don't need to cycle a terrestrial enclosure.
If you want to make a bit of a self sustaining setup than I would recommend adding woodlice. If you are lucky they will start to breed right in your enclosure and are usually loved by Caudata in my experience. It worth a shot anyway.
Good luck on your terrarium!

Extra caresheet ( if you haven't already seen it ).
Caudata Culture Species Entry - Tiger salamander -Seth