I can't tell how deep the substrate is. Is it at least 7" deep? Yes, I would moisten the substrate up before housing it. I don't think it will use that flowerpot hide, though. Pre start a burrow under the pot, or use a piece of cork bark or similar item. It will burrow pretty deep once it gets settled. How big is it? (The spider, I mean ) Oh, yeah, and tamp the substrate down some when you moisten it, so that it will hold together well for a burrow.