do you cycle your tank before you get your betta?

[IRescue452]

For a single betta tank its safe enough to cycle while the fish is in it. If its a small enough tank you don't need to actively cycle because you can just dump the water when the ammonia builds up. You should still keep in control of the levels and watch for spikes. Even if you don't cycle on purpose, beneficial bacteria will grow on the decor. Plants have nothing to do with cycling a tank.

[vinjashira]

thank you for the replies everyone - really helpful.

I'm going to use a 2 gallon tank.
I have two tanks just in case I want another fish in the future

I had betta fish as a kid and I remember how I used to adore them.
Looking forward to having them again.

[Christmas_Hamster]

I don't cycle my smaller tanks. For a 2 gallon I just do a 100% water change weekly.

[Alasse]

All my tanks from small to large are cycled with fish, not lost one yet You just need to be very on with water changes to make it a comfortable ride for said fish

I just avoid adding any 'touchy' fish until the tank appears stable