Fishless Cycling In An Unfinished Tank?

[s72450]

I have a 55g tank that I'm fixing to begin a fishless cycle on. I plan on using basic pool filter sand in the middle of the tank and then using an aquatic planting soil in the back corners of the tank. I'm going to plant eventually but not until the cycle is done. Would it be okay to being my cycle process with just the pool filter sand in the middle of the tank?

I wasn't planning on adding the aquatic soil or the plants until my cycle was done. Is this a smart idea or should I wait and begin once I've added all the substrate?

[Lady Hobbs]

Go ahead. Most of the bacteria will be grown on the filter media.

[s72450]

Okay thanks alot!