I began by using distilled water ( no ph perfecting) and 2 seeds. I let them sit on the window sill as it was still somewhat warm because winter hadn't come. After approcimately 3 days they had grown their tails and I deemed them ready to plant. Afterwhich, i stuck my finger in the dirt about .5 and inch in and then plopped the seeds in. 1 of the seeds after planting, when i watered it floated to top and re-seated itself un-centered. Make certain Yours dont do this as when the seedling has a tail it is very delicate and you dont want to ruin your start. One thing i may have wanted to do to have a longer tail is to let them sit in the water another day. During this time i check frequently to keep the soil wet/moist so they have plenty of water to do their thing.