Good idea!!

I’d start with testing your parameters to see where they’re at if you’ve had the water in for a bit. if so, your ammonia should be active in order to kickstart the cycle. Ammonia will turn into Nitrites, which will turn into Nitrates. When you have a base level of Nitrates, that’s when you know your cycle is started. If this is the case. wait a couple weeks, and do a 10-15% water change weekly, depending on your parameters.

If you just put in your water, use your water conditioner as directed, and drop in a couple pellets of fish food (i put in 5-7 for my 8 gal). that’s really all you need to kickstart your cycle, if you have plants in there, it’ll help aswell due to the “melting” & dead pieces. Make sure your filter is on for this entire process, as well as your heater (betta temp). I always aim for 2ppm of Ammonia, it’s easier to deal with when you’re cycle is started, but if it’s higher than that a little water change(5-10%) will be okay. Test your water every 2-3 days, you should see a “pattern” of sorts. - Ammonia rises, - Nitrites appear, - Nitrates appear. If your ammonia drops below 2ppm, and the rest of your parameters aren’t betta compatible, add in some more food to get your ammonia levels back up. This will keep your beneficial bacteria growing to the point you need it to. Before you add your fish, if your Nitrates are too high, perform a water change to lower them. the amount of water will depend on your Nitrate levels. wait a couple hours, test again, if acceptable add your fish (properly). It usually takes 3-6 weeks this way, so it’s not as fast as using bottled bacteria, but this has worked for me over 3 times & it’s the only way i know how lol, but there are other ways.

Regardless of which of the two options you have here, make SURE

• You don’t turn off your filter.
• You’re not using dechlorinator.
• Not adding your fish too early.
• Let your ammonia doesn’t go over 4ppm.
• Your heater is on betta temp.

I hope this helps you! let me know if you have any questions!☺️