i like coc-nut substrate. someone else posted it in here before and it worked great. but it all comes down to preference. cyprus mulch, eco-earth or other styled dirt), coc-nut, newspaper. i say try some or mix and match, then use what you decide is the best. of course a plexiglass top wouldnt hurt if you have a screen lid. i fixed out lids to be plastic with 6 buxks and a trip to home depot.