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Yep, it's fine adding plants at the start of the cycle. The Alder cone is causing the pH to drop more than needed. pH is getting sub optimal for fast bacteria growth with pH getting lower. Bacteria grows optimally at higher pH - 7 or above, along with warm temps and plenty of ammonia. Remove the alder, add in some dechlorinated tap water to raise pH. After the tank has been cycled, you can add in alder cones and reduce the pH.