Cycle has mixed returns from users. If you have plenty of time (as you should) and want to do things the orthodox way just let it go about its business by its self. Cycle introduces bacteria into your tank, for some it works, but several people have had results ranging from disaster, to no visible impact. I suppose if you want to be on the safe side the fewer things you put in your tank the better if you are concerned. Personally it worked for me, but I dont have the years and years of experience that some of the other people who didn't like it have had, and if you are going to base a decision on other peoples' preferences, go with someone who has seen the lasting impacts of any additive or technique over the long term..