a few additions to what's already been said
Re: Plants
Just like different species of fish require different water parameters, so do different species of aquatic plants. when you get a chance try to figure out what kinds of plants you have, and/or what types of plantswould do well in your tank. there are a lot of great websites and books on this topic
Re: Cycling & bacterial additives
I would like to make sure the difference between nitrItes (NO2) and nitrAtes (NO3) is understood in this case. NO2 is the second step in the cycle and can be just as toxic as ammonia (NH4). In a normal cycle you will see a peak in NH4 followed by a peak in NO2, but both should reach 0ppm soon. NO3 (nitrates) are considered not as toxic and are the final stage in the cycle. when these are present in your water test readings you know your cycle is almost complete.
An exception to this can be a false reading produced by the use of certain live bacterial additives. I'm not a fan of the additives in the first place and feel there are better, less expensive ways to cycle a tank.
Re: The problem at hand
Lmouthbass - i know you are feeling overwhelmed and you do have a lot on your plate, but asking for help and acting on the advice given you is the best thing you can do. First i would prioritize your problems.
The non cyclcled tank and the ick are fairly equal in my book - but as Oriongirl stated they can be dealt with at the same time. remember water changes, water testing (try to relate results in numbers [i.e. 10ppm vs. 80ppm] rather than colors [dark purpler vs. light blue], most scales should provide both), feed lightly every other day, and remove leftover food or decaying plant material as soon as you see it. if you have carbon in your filter remove it - it will absorb the ick medicine before it has a chance to work.
The plants - although they are not doing well, i see them as a secondary problem. most likely if you have the proper conditions for them they will bounce back once your tank is back on track. the ick medicine may not be the best for them - so removing them to a bucket of fresh water w/ and airstone and some sunlight may be better for them while you are medicating.
i hope this helps. please keep us posted.
