How to cycle my 29 gallon tank

[cauterox04]

I just got it all set up got my heater running and filter running what's the next step how long do I wait and should I are a fish or not. I'm not sure please someone help me and do I need a test kit

 

[venymae]

Read the guide to starting a freshwater aquarium (link below) it will guide you in how to cycle. The two basic ways are fish-in and fish-less. A test kit is recommended, but I suppose you could get around it in a fish-less cycle. Maybe. You should just get the API Master test kit (liquid)

 

[cauterox04]

If I add quick start is that good or what

 

[J1Time]

Add Prime and that's it. Get the temp up to around 84-86 degrees and buy a test kit. Dose the aquarium with 100% ammonia to about 4ppm. Sit back and wait. It takes a long time.

Alternative, do it the not so smart way by adding in fish and watch the deaths occur. Your choice.

 

[cauterox04]

How long do I wait after I add that stuff for it to finish the cycle

 

[threnjen]

Check out the link that Mae provided up there, "Guide to Starting a Freshwater Aquarium" which should answer a lot of your questions about how to get your tank up and running

You should get a test kit, API Freshwater Master Test Kit. About $20 on Amazon, $30 if you go to a local store.

Fishless cycling will take about a month, but is (in my opinion) the least work as there isn't anything to screw up