not trying to stir the soup, but i never got the paper towel method. for me that's too much handling. i soak the soil a few days before planting the seed into the finishing pot. after letting the soil drain for 2 or 3 days, i then sow the seed about 1/8" deep and cover with a light coating of soil. after sprouting, use a mist bottle to wet the soil directly around the new plant. GL