Flake Soil

A premium fermented substrate crafted from European hardwoods, perfect for isopods, millipedes, and beetle larvae.

Flake Soil is a specially prepared breeding substrate made from crushed, milled, and fermented oak and beech wood. Through a careful composting process, the wood breaks down into a nutrient-rich, easy-to-digest material that invertebrates thrive on. Available in three sizes, it suits everything from trying it out and topping up existing enclosures through to kitting out larger bioactive setups — choose the smallest size to sample it, the mid size for a single enclosure, or the largest for multiple setups or deep millipede substrates.

What is Flake Soil?

Unlike standard substrates, flake soil has been pre-fermented — meaning the tough cellulose and lignin in the wood has already begun breaking down. This makes it far more digestible for detritivores and provides a ready source of nutrition. The fermentation process also encourages beneficial microorganisms that support a healthy enclosure ecosystem.

Ideal For

Isopods — works brilliantly as part of a substrate mix for Cubaris species and other tropical varieties. Combine with coconut coir, sphagnum moss, and leaf litter for an enriched environment that supports burrowing behaviour and healthy moulting.

Millipedes — an excellent primary substrate for millipede keeping, providing both nutrition and a comfortable medium for burrowing.

Beetle larvae — originally developed for rhinoceros beetle and stag beetle breeding, flake soil remains the gold-standard substrate for rearing larvae to their full potential.

How to Use

Flake soil is supplied slightly dried for storage stability. Before use, gradually add dechlorinated water and mix thoroughly until you achieve the desired moisture level — it should hold together when squeezed but not drip. Allow it to rest for 24 hours before introducing your invertebrates.

For isopod enclosures, flake soil works best as part of a layered substrate. Use it alongside your existing mix to add variety and nutrition. It pairs perfectly with springtails in bioactive setups, as both will work together to process organic matter and maintain a clean, balanced environment.

Specifications

• Volume — available in 1 litre, 3 litre, and 5 litre
• Composition — fermented European hardwood (primarily oak and beech)
• Moisture — approximately 50-60% (may vary slightly)
• Fibre content — approximately 25%

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place. If the substrate dries out during storage, simply rehydrate before use. Properly stored flake soil will keep for several months.

Whether you're keeping Porcellio, Armadillidium, or building a bioactive vivarium, flake soil is a versatile addition to your supplies. Grab a bag and see the difference quality substrate makes.