So I’m setting up a betta tank, I have no animals for it yet but I’m only planning to get a betta and some snails ONLY once the tank is set up, cycled, and stable/ready. I’ve never had a full tank before so I have no idea how to cycle a tank or what ph levels are appropriate for a planted 10gal, etc, I’m just stumped on how to set up and maintain proper levels in a tank. Would you have any advice?
Here’s a nifty guide for cycling a tank: What Is Aquarium Cycling? by scalestails. I personally use the pure ammonia method since it’s the easiest and cleanest method to use.
While a properly cycled tank and water changes will take care of the ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels, pH needs more adjustment. The first thing you’d need to do is use a freshwater testing kit to determine what your pH is and then go from there.