I have heard alot of different ways to cycle a tank .Without fish by dropping pieces of food in the tank and letting it break down over time I dont like this method.Fish in method by using guppies letting the fish waste begin the process and risk sacraficing fish because of the spikes ,I surely dont like this method. Chemicals that instantly cycle the tank I love this method LOL but I know it has to have some sort of negative effect ? What about saving half the water from a established tank…

 What are the advantages of using sand ? Can you use a vac with it ?

 What plants are the best for a five gallon aquarium that are easy to care for and dont grow too fast and all over the place ??