Old thread but in case anyone wanders in here like I did. I recommend using a clear solo cup to start seedlings that you slide into a solid color solo cup. Then you can just lift the clear one out to see if it is dry or not and you can check on the roots situation. I also have the initial...
I use defoliating to try and prevent and mold or fungus problems. Even with several fans and good air exchange all it takes is a leaf resting on a bud for too long and blammo. You got botrytis. And that's a real pain in the arse.