new planted tank

[aviran]

I am thinking of setting up a new tank. Can I plant before it's been cycled, or do I need to wait?

 

[sherry]

the plants actually consume ammonia so it is fine to plant from the start.. just hold off on the fish and do a fishless cycle.

 

[aviran]

thank you

 

[Simpte]

If you can plant heavy, add plants, and the fish the next day. You won't have to add ammonia and the plants will keep the levels low (consuming the NH4 that the bacteria can't get to) while the tank matures. This is the recommended way to start a planted tank. Just don't add 30 fish at once. Be sensible in this area adding 4-5 at a time. Bacteria always get nutrients first due to their simplicity. Plants will take whats left.