When to add

[StarOrbs]

My tank is currently cycling, I'm probally about 75% done maybe more. I'm just wondering if it's best to add real plants while it's cycling or is it best to wait until after it's done. (I'm doing a fishless cycle with ammonia)

EDIT: I take that back I'm almost done, my nitrite went from 2.0 from yesterday to around .3 so I'm probally ever closer to being done.

 

[fishwatcher]

You can add plants at any time. I added mine at the very beginning, and it's fine. I think it helps to do it before you add fish so it all settles down before they get there. Just make sure you have good flourescent lighting, and don't use too much extra bubble-making items. I learned the last two things the hard way!

 

[StarOrbs]

I have plenty of lighting lol. Thanks. I'll think I'll go ahead and order them so I can get the plants stable and get ready for my next task heh.

 

[ladyhawke]

You can add plants at any time. I added mine at the very beginning, and it's fine. I think it helps to do it before you add fish so it all settles down before they get there. Just make sure you have good flourescent lighting, and don't use too much extra bubble-making items. I learned the last two things the hard way!

What harm do the bubble-making things do to the plants?

 

[rdd1952]

Too much aeration drives the CO2 that plants need out of the water. Without CO2, the plants won't grow very well.

 

[Chaz]

I would add the plants about a week after main setup but do not add plants like Cabomba as these genrally fail unless the water is good! i know from experience! )