2 quick White tree frog questions

[LydiasMom]

You have both given me some very helpful information and some very good tips so thanks you both for all the help.
I have decided I am definitely going to get some frogs now. I have been thinking about WTF's ever since seeing them for the first time about a year ago and doing a lot of reading but there were a few things I wasn't clear about but you have both helped loads.

I'm really glad! I'm a neophyte, myself, but I've been learning a lot! Feel free to ask me anything you need help with! Worst case scenario I'll have to tell you that I don't know

[KayJoh]

This post went wrong so have reposted.

[KayJoh]

I know I have said this before but I really do appreciate the help. I actually hate coming onto forums because I don't want to be a pain in the butt to anyone. BUT... having said that your responses have raised a few more questions.
I have now decided that I would like to go down the planted route, they do look nice don't they! My first question is I know that you need your drainage layer but do you have to, from time to time, syphon the bottom right out to keep things nice and fresh?
Also am I right that you need a clean up crew and if so how do you ensure that they don't bring anything nasty in with them?
My plants will obviously be in before I get the frogs so is there anything I need to do for the plants until the frogs go in or will water be enough until the frogs arrive?
Lastly just seen something about cycling the tank. What does that mean? I know all about cycling a fancy goldfish tank but don't have a clue with this.
Can't tell you how much all your advice is helping already so again THANK YOU. X

[DanDrobates]

All of the above covers whites treefrog care very thoroughly. But yes you are right to ask about the cleanup crew and substrate. Here’s what I use.
1. Bottom drainage layer of clay or leca balls
2. Layer of vinyl screen as a substrate barrier
3. Layer of ABG mix as substrate
4. Layer of leaf litter such as magnolia or live osk
5. Add springtails and isopods
6. Let the tank cycle for two weeks to a month.

Cycling a vivarium means allowing the cleanup crew time to establish itself. Also it allows you to tweet and issues with heating or lighting before you obtain and introduce your frogs.

[KayJoh]

Thank you Dan, that was all really helpful. I will make a note of all that and check it out.

[LydiasMom]

Thank you Dan, that was all really helpful. I will make a note of all that and check it out.

Sorry for disappearing, I was busy over the weekend with my family and being new to the forums checking in isn't a habit yet.

Setting up is something I'm struggling with myself, though, since Lydia came into my life in a unique way I've kind of ended up with a cart before the horse scenario and am "learning on the job" as it were. So, seconding the thanks to you, Dan for this info!

[KayJoh]

Don't apologise for disappearing, as a mum of five I know how hectic family life can be.
Well, I have started my froggy journey now. I had a cabinet delivered today and tomorrow I am ordering the exo terra 45x45x60 vivarium. going to take things slowly and make sure I have everything I need before I start out. Its going to be a while yet before I can actually get any frogs but I'm sure they will be worth the wait.
I read your intro post telling how you saved Lydia, she was a lucky girl but a bit unexpected for you no doubt. She is so cute. x

[LydiasMom]

Hehe, definitely unexpected, I've always had cats, so Lydia is a whole new experience!
**edit And thank you! She really is adorable! She has such a loving and playful personality! And thank you for the understanding, so often people feel entitled to one's time and with new folk one never knows where they stand on such things until they tell you

Would you have the time and inclination to post updates showing your set up process? Folk always seem to post the established vivarium, but never the growing pains portion.

Lydia's set up right now is apparently sub optimal, as it's just a layer of the e-coco several inches deep with moss and the chameleon plants and a dish pool. So, I need to learn about setting up a proper vivarium for her. I realise your frogs have slightly different needs, but seeing how one physically goes about it and the process would be super informative for me and likely many others as well!