Gecko Time: Replicating Native Gecko Habitats

There's nothing like good research when planning for your gecko. This Albuquerque resident exploited the similarities between her environment and leopard geckos' native Afghanistan to design the most appropriate enclosure: Replicating Native Gecko Habitats | Gecko Time

Aliza

Very nice article!

Been reading the sub-forum for natural terrariums, and am wondering what other types of mixtures have worked well for others as far as substrate.
Not too keen on using anything in nature around here, city treated area and there's no telling what kinds of chemicals or other things might be about.

Also wondering about heating, if a UTH or over head light are needed or is a thick enough layer of soil going to help trap heat and achieve a good gradient?

Have found a few other articles on Gecko Time that offer other insights, but still have a few question nonetheless (if there is an over looked article that is even more in depth, would very much like to read it)