Dosing a new tank

[JG1]

I'm setting up a tank from scratch. I just got back into the hobby after 6 years and have zero livestock. Plans are to get the LR in, and let the tank run with the lights off for 4 weeks, after which if everything tests well I'll start adding a few fish and when the tank is rock stable I'll start adding SPS.

When should I start dosing alk, calcium, mag?

[bertoni]

You'll need alkalinity and calcium test kits to check the levels. Many tanks don't require dosing for months. After both calcium and alkalinity are in line, you can check alkalinity regularly and calcium every 2-3 months. I also tested magnesium every 2-3 months, but that should be checked a bit more regularly at first.