>> I always mark before I even put the seeds in, so i don't forget.
Yes! I use mini-blind slats cut to 1/2 width, and stick one in each row of a prop tray.
I've also used a spray bottle (to supplement bottom watering).
>> You all DO know that you can buy "real" capillary matting, right?
Yes, but I'm cheap. That link wasn't a bad price, but it was still $2.50 per tray, before shipping and tax.
>> I really like the fact that it came with a thin "cover" material that is supposed to help prevent evaporation and also keep the actual mat cleaner.
I guess they work OK, since professionals use them, but I would worry if the surface was not fuzzy and had no "loft". How would I be sure that the cap mat was in good contact with every cfell, even if the cells only have slits and not large holes?
>> Rick, I would use terry cloth or 100% cotton flannel since pure cotton is hydrophilic
Cotton flannel is what I'll be using until I use that batch up. But several artificial fabrics are also hydrophilic. The cheapest "felt" that I see is made from some recycled plastic, like soda bottles. I've been told that is very water-loving also, but I seem to recall water beading up on some kind of felt. Maybe it is true that you have to "wash the sizing out of it" before felt is water-absorbent again.
Artificial fabric might last longer and be less prone to mold or algae.
