I'm starting a brand new tank 29 gallon. Had a 55 gallon 7 years sgo. Starting one up again but forgot the chemicals to us. PH is 8.0 right now water temp is 78 and dechorinated water so far.
Ive had great luck in my 29 gallon tank with Tetra Safe Start, its a good BB Product that does show results, everyone says not to use a chem to help the tank cycle, i say hog wash, just be choosey about what product you use, like i said i can recommend Tetra Safe Start, but even with these products some water changes will be required, its not a cycle in a bottle, but it will help to rapidly cycle your tank
Indeed I read in a few places to remove carbon and filter pad as it will cause the Bb to colonize on the pad which is a waste since the pads have to be changed