Dart Den

How much substrate should I put over my lower gravel substrate? I have about an inch of peat moss substrate on top and have some ivy and philodendron planted. Is this enough substrate for these plants to take root and thrive? Also, what is the best suggestion for training the ivy to grow on my dirt covered Great Stuff background? This is my first tank, any help would be appreciated.

I use two to three inches of substrate in my tanks and I would think you can pin up your ivy until it starts some thigmotropism.

i do basically the same. i use toothpicks to pin the creeper to the back wall where i want it, then remove the toothpicks once it's rooted in place.

I use the larger staples in the staple guns until the plants take root then take them out!!