Cycling and Plants

[jtpage]

I would like to have a small number of plants in my 29 gal with low light. The main reason i want them is to help keep control alge. and because they look great of course - i just dont have a ton of money to spend on elaborate lighting and co2 at the moment.

soo...

How Do i Cylce? Do i cycle normally and add the plants slowly when i'm cycled? or do i add them right away, and if so, should i use ferts during the cycle?

I dont have Co2 and i have a sand substrate. I have one flourescent bulb that came with the tank prolly 15w or so.

thank you!!

John

 

[Ms.Bubbles]

First of all I must warn you, most low-light plants are not very good for controlling algae because they are slow-growing. You need fast-growers to take up nutrients in the water (which feeds the algae), but most of these require slightly higher light levels. I can only think of 1 low-light plant that would help with algae and that is hornwort, although I personally find it a messy plant to deal with.

Regarding cycling: I would advise that you cycle your tank first, then add the plants once the tank is fully cycled. One reason for this is that plants will absorb the ammonia, and you won't be able to build up a very large bacteria colony (or, your cycle with plants may take longer than usual). Another reason is that high ammonia levels (needed to cycle) + lights on for 8-10 hours a day (which plants require)= algae.

PS. If it's a 15 watt fluorescent bulb you have over your 29 gallon tank, you won't be able to grow much. You'll be at .5 watts per gallon--that MAY be enough for hornwort, anubias and/or java moss.

 

[jtpage]

I see... well that helps alot, thank you.

I plan on getting some higher powered light ordered right away... maybe enough for 2wpg. In the mean time i will get cycled.

Should i add fish or plants first after cycle?

Maybe a little of each very slowly?

 

[Star_Rider]

here's a read on cycling and planted tanks.

basically with the right plants, cycling changes since plants love ammonia..you may never see ammonia in a planted tank.

but I do suggest you read up on it.

 

[Ms.Bubbles]

After you cycle, you should add plants (all of them). Fish should be the last to go in. The reason is that a lot of dirt and plant matter can be stirred up during the planting process as you cover the roots and move the plants around and the water can get quite grungy. The whole process can be pretty stressful on a fish.