Cycling Tank, planted or not?

[nataku]

Just started on a new tank.. haven't add water and anything yet before enquiring about this.

Would it be better to cycle the tank straight away with plants or add water and cycle it for a few weeks before adding the plants in?

Is there any difference?

Thanks!

[Shadow]

IMO straight away with plants is better, the plant will help absorb NH3.

[davescube]

It might depend on the soil, thats what I heard from LFS boss today..
I have just set up a new tank like you ^^
my tank is still empty..

[Shadow]

if it is planted tank, I assume you will be using a fertile soil that will leach out amonia to the water which will cause algae

[nataku]

hmm, i using GEX; the red packet one.
so how?

lols. still start planting immediately or wait for a few weeks?

[illumnae]

i believe only ada leeches ammonia into the water...i don't think gex does

[AquaObsession]

Cycle with plant. What is the bad effect of clycling with plants? I only know of bad effect of not cycling when there is no plant.

The plants will add more surface area for the bacteria, and will help absorb your ammonia etc.

Cheers, Christophe

[nataku]

alright, thanks guys!
Gonna get my plants soon and start planting!

[bliss01]

I also use GEX /Red, i add plants and moss straight away on the 1st filling water everything ok except for the moss as the debris sink to the bottom it cover up the moss. It take weeks to clear up.

[Shadow]

its ok, use small hose, shake the moss a bit and suck it

[beetlejuice403]

I prefer to cycle the tank with plants also... Beside helping to intake the unwanted components from the ANN cycle, at least I also won't be staring at an EMPTY tank with filter & lights running... [Or at least my wife won't comment that I'm wasting electricity ($$) if I'm cycling my tanks with plants in... LOL!!! ]