hey buddy just had a wee flick through there. glad youve finally taken the plunge to grow your own herbs. youll never look back now : )
the reason we leave the bucket of water overnight is to evaporate the chlorine from it wich can slow the growth rate down. easiest way to germ, as elle pointed out, is root riots. costs a tenner for 20 odd of them and you just put the seed in, leave it anywhere other than the fridge and ouiala . no water, no fannying about with paper,baggies, heaters and whatever else people do. keep it simple : ) hope it all goes well for you mate. if you need anything never be shy to ask : )