rjfurbank

I have had good success recently setting up new tanks by adding lots of plants initially (especially lots of moss) and limiting the light to 4-6 hours initially. I would definitely change the water--maybe a few times to get the Nitrate down <10. I have never tried a "fishless" cycle by adding ammonia. I usually just add some "mulm" from a filter on another tank to the substrate when setting up the tank, add water and tons of plants, add a few small fish or shrimp (only hardy shrimp like neocaridina's though), and feed sparingly for a while.

What kind of substrate are you using?

Good luck!