Howdy Doggiedeb, I germinate my seeds on a paper towel in an aluminum foil (small disposable bread loaf pan) container. I use tap water (pH'ed to 5.0, without any nutrients) just deep enough to cover a folded paper towel. The water level is just enough for the seeds to be in contact with, but not under the water. I cover the pan with plastic wrap, then foil, and place it in a warm area (35° to 80° F). This has worked well for me. I can lift the foil to check on their progress and then place the seedlings into the rockwool cubes when the root is showing growth. Here are some photos of a past germination.