New ball python owner, DIY tank in the future

[Snake Judy]

How long do you expect the substrate to sustain Judy? And what does your maintenance routine consist of?

It should last years, though it may need to be topped up annually with more substrate and leaf litter as it breaks down. It's populated with isopods and springtails and whatever other microfauna has established itself. They keep it clean by eating mold, fungus, waste etc., though since ball python waste is pretty substantial I spot clean the bulk of it and stir the substrate around a bit once in a while. Aside from that my only real maintenance is caring for the plants. I like to give them a misting once a day or so and water them more deeply every few days as needed.