Plants In Whilst Cycling?

[barker_23]

Hi, I am just about to start cycling my tank, (as soon as i get my ammonia)

Just wondered if it helps to put some plants in before i start the cycle or does it matter?

Thanks

 

[Miss Wiggle]

it depends really, plants can muck up the cycle readings a bit because they take up ammonia, if they're taking up enough you may think that the filter is cycling when it isn't however this will only have a tangible effect with a lot of plants (around two thirds of the substrate planted as a rough guide). If you've got loads and loads of plants then it's actually a different process called silent cycling, I won't confuse you with details but if you're planning on very heavy planting then just ask and we'll give some more details so you can make an objective choice.

If you're just wanting a handful of plants then you can put them in, it's unlikely to affect anything either way

 

[OldMan47]

I don't think it really matters. You need to recognize that plants will consume some of the ammonia so not every drop in ammonia means that the biological filter is becoming established but the plants also can carry some of the bacteria that you need on their surface. That could give you a slight advantage in starting your bacterial culture. The plants will also consume some of the nitrates that are produced so, in my opinion, it is a good thing to have some live plants in a tank to help out with filtration. If you choose to use plants during the cycle and then have questions, just be sure to mention the plants when posting questions so we can take that into account while formulating an answer to the question you might have.

Sorry MW, didn't see you there.

 

[barker_23]

Thanks guys, shopping list for thursday then:

1. Ammonia
2. Some plants

Thanks for your help, im sure i will be back to ask more questions sooner or later!!!

 

[aaronnorth]

only put the plants in if you are planning to cover 75% of substrate, otherwise you may get algae issues,

it is better to plant with about 1week to go to the end of the cycle.

 

[Truck]

they should be ok