cycling with an axolotl, nitrite question

Question
Dear Tina,

I just got an axolotl on 3/11/12 and was not told about tank cycling. Now that I have her, I am attempting to keep ammonia levels low until bacteria starts building up to start the cycle. However, its been 2 weeks now, and I'm still not seeing any Nitrites occurring. I've checked many fish forums and googled like crazy, and have only found the "how" of the cycle not the "whens".

I do 20% water changes every few days, whenever i read ammonia (which is currently been every single time i test). I use the API water drop test kit for my tests. I make sure to change it often so my axolotl doesnt get sick.

What time frame should I be seeing nitrites occurring, and when should i expect to see nitrates occurring? Will the cycle happen if I dont have more than just the small amount of Java moss in there, or do i need more plants? I cant really plant much as most plants dont like the cold, the lack of light, and the lack of substrate.

Fish tank specifics:
*10 gallon fish tank with 10 of 12 inches filled with water
*One live axolotl (juvenile)
*Sponge filter powered by air pump
*one plastic hide with a very small java moss ball attached
*Temperature ranges from 64 *F -70 *F

Thanks in advance,
alyy.

Answer
Ally,  The tank should have been cycled out with live bacteria (called cycle) before you got him. You are going through new tank syndrome with him in it. All you can do is what you are keep up the water changes. It will take a little longer to cycle down but it will be ok. So keep changing the water every couple days less as your levels go down and you should be fine. Everything else sounds fine. Good Luck, Tina