Plant fertilizer and cycling

[Elle2]

Hi,

Can anyone tell me if adding plant fertilzer (I was thinking just a generic bottled 'plant support' type thing) will effect my cycling? I am only in the beginning of week two if that makes a difference.

Thanks,

Elle

 

[malkore]

it'll make no difference at all.

but adding too many ferts to a new tank is an easy way to start algae growth. go easy on it.

 

[Elle2]

great, thanks!

 

[Kilgore]

I've read that the filter bacteria actually require a small amount of phosphorous to grow properly, as well as the standard ammonia/nitrites (depending on the type), so in theory your fertilizer may actually help if it contains phosporous. The tapwater usually has enough phosphates, though, so it will probably have no effect.