To my understanding, cycling refers to the nitrogen cycle. Fish produce ammonia in their waste, and this is toxic to them. In an aquarium, bacteria will convert the ammonia to nitrite (also toxic), then another group of bacteria convert the nitrite to nitrate, which is safe in moderate amounts. "Cycling", as it's used in fishkeeping is the period (3-6 weeks usually) when the bacteria is becoming established in a new tank, or one where the bacteria have been killed (by chlorine, antibiotics, or other chemicals).
I hope this helps you better understand what cycling is exactly, and why putting his stuff in your tank will not work. Good Luck and have fun with the hobby!