this is how i start plants ,,,72 cell tray w/dome , fill desired cells w/jiffy mix, germinate in paper towle, when shell cracks place in cell (1/8" deep) keep temp in dome 80 degrees in 2-4 days the sprout will be to the top of the cell squeeze the bottom of the cell so dirt and sprout release (useually the tap root has made it to the bottom)place in pot and put under metal halide i also use a cool 26w cfl directly above the dome. w/ this method the seedling will be at least 4" from top to bottom of tap root when it comes out of the dome off to a healthy start the trays w/dome are like 5 bucks and are re usable . always ph soil BEFORE you transplant! its like this proper preperation prevents poor performance. you can burn your plant by adjusting ph because acids and bases are caustic