Water Changes During Cycling

[Lazerus]

Now, because I introduced a high level of Ammonia in the tank via drops of Househol ammonia, and my tank also has plant substrate under my gravel which contains dead organic matter (hummas - which is a source of Ammonia also)...

I`m not sure what you are saying here, but ammonia will raise the pH. Apologies if this is what you meant.

...plus I used CO² to feed my plants (which softens the water also)...

Bear in mind that the effect of CO2 on the kH of water is negligible.

Despite all your apparent woes, once you are cycled it will be possible to run a nice stable tank full of wood, CO2 at 30ppm, add nitrates at 5ppm a day and all with a negligible kH. No need to buffer the water.

This hobby doesn`t have to be difficult, or a worry.

Dave.

Dave...I don't really know what I'm talking about ever!!

But what I was trying to say when I mentioned about adding a couple of liquid drops of Ammonia & the Ammonia in the hummas, is that I thought the high Ammonia content will then in turn raise the Nitrites which in turn breaks down the buffer....?

Still on a huge learning curve here....

Anyway....I hope your right about having a nice stable tank...Can't wait!