ER9

i wanted to create a raised area on one side of my tank so i built the gravel to about 5" layer. i plan on putting lava rocks on it and a few assorted plants. is it ok to build up an area with gravel that thick? i probablly wont be able to vacuum this area that easilly.

TFA101

as long as live plants will not occupy that general area, you should be good with that. This is because when vaccuming the substrate, you could damage the root system with the vacuum. just letting you know

ER9

thanks....i appreciate the advice. i was planning on having them there but have changed my mind and will keep the live plants further away. i actually did end up removing alot of the gravel anyways just for looks. still a work inprogress.