Hey all,
I'm starting a tank trying the "add plants and get stuff to grow" method described in the video below. I always did fishless cycle in the past.
What I'm not sure of is how fast I can go and have it really be safe for fish?
I set up with plants and EcoComplete substrate last weekend. Added 2 doses of Easy Green this week. I also got some driftwood.
It's only been a week and I've got what I think is hair algae and it looks like my water sprite is growing. Other plants seem happy but not noticeably changed.
Is it really already safe to add fish? Stuff is definitely growing, but it's so soon after starting! I just tested the water parameters and other than being a little soft it seems safe: 0 Nitrate, 0 Nitrite, ~50 GH, 40-60 buffer, ~6.8 pH, 0 chlorine. I haven't changed the water yet.
It's a 10gal and I am planning to add a betta, Amano shrimp, and a nerite snail. I'm getting a Wonder Shell too since the water is so soft.
Thanks!