Should I Add Plants Whilst 'cycling' A New Tropical Fish Tank?

[Philish]

Hi,

I am new to the 'fishforums', and new to having fish all together. I researched my tank, and bought it a week ago. As soon as I got it, I filled it up and added 'tapsafe' to help the water cycle, and I also added a couple ornaments and three live plants. Now, I had the water tested an hour ago, and was told that the nitrate levels were far too high, and this is because I added live plants without fish...is this definitely correct? Or could it be because I have a wooden ornament (which actually turned the water a tinged brown due to the tannin).

I had the water tested at the reputable 'Pets at Home' so I am fairly sure they know what they are talking about, but I couldn't find that information on here anywhere, and I wasn't warned about adding plants when I bought the tank from them and the plants at the same time.

So basically - should I just leave the plants out till I get the fish?

Thanks for whomever reads/comments,

Philish

 

[SchottayB]

I had the water tested at the reputable 'Pets at Home' so I am fairly sure they know what they are talking about

Sorry but .

Someone will be along shortly to help you. But for now: http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/113861-fishless-cycling/

 

[Philish]

I had the water tested at the reputable 'Pets at Home' so I am fairly sure they know what they are talking about

Sorry but .

Someone will be along shortly to help you. But for now: http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/113861-fishless-cycling/

Excellent contribution. I didn't notice that big forum that's right on the introduction page. How did I miss that...

Not driving the Asda van today then?

 

[BigbruiserAl]

Ok few of points really, LFS are ok in a pinch but you need to have your own test kit(£20). You should not have live plants in a fishless cycle as the plants need light, light and ammonia will result in algae blooms. What does far to high mean in PPM? it is a goos idea to get a understanding of how the cycle works

 

[SchottayB]

Not driving the Asda van today then?

Off today and tomorrow .

If you need help I will come help you

 

[Philish]

Ok few of points really, LFS are ok in a pinch but you need to have your own test kit(£20). You should not have live plants in a fishless cycle as the plants need light, light and ammonia will result in algae blooms. What does far to high mean in PPM? it is a goos idea to get a understanding of how the cycle works

Appreciate the help - am starting a fish-less cycle now. Water test kit is on it's way. I think the PPM was about 70...so too high really.

 

[BigbruiserAl]

Great stuff are you going to add ammonia for cycle then? 70ppm is fine i never did a water change till well in 200ppm for any fishless cycle