If I am running from seed, I soak a small rockwool cube in distilled water for about 20 mins, squeeze it out so it is damp and put the seed in. I brush some of the rockwool over the seed and 90% of the time I get a seeding within 2-3 days.
Once the tap root sprouts out of the bottom of the rockwool cube I put it in a 4 x4 rockwool cube soaked in 1/8th strength of my veg formula. Within 3-4 days when the root breaks out the bottom of the cube I put it in a net pot and a 3 gallon black bucket with one medium airstone in it. It is very important to keep the fluid level about 1/2 inch under the bottom of the net pot. Once the roots hit the fluid it takes off. In about 2 weeks I transfer the net pot to a 5gallon bucket to finish vegging. When I move to flower I use the same idea but with 3 airstones and an 18gal black tub from Wallyworld.
With clones, I use a common sprayer then transfer to a small net pot and 2 inch foam disc. I use a small bubbler (is what I call it). Basically a 4x12x4 inch tub wrapped in reflective tape. I can put 6 net cups in each one and 2 airstones. Once the plant is split, recovered and about 9 inches tall I transfer to the same 3 gal black bucket and large net pot. I use ph balanced stones to just suspend the plant. Then continue with the same method mentioned above.
Yes it is a lot of work, most good things are. Yes there are methods that would help save time, recirculating, etc. I enjoy doing the work, it IS my work. It is what works for me.
Peace.
