i never opt for the paper towel method because, sometimes it can dry out & then u have to re-wet, & sometimes they can get moldy. I either soak seeds in a shot glass for 12 hrs. & then plant directly in soil OR I put the shot glass in my veg/flower room for a day or so until they show roots & then plant. That is a fallacy that I have found about it having to be dark. Just 2 days ago, I sprouted tails on my seeds, in my flower room, fully lit 12 hrs. & plenty warm; I just put them off to the side.