Hey Freedom,
go easy on yourself. This is supposed to be a fun hobby. You are doing it on the cheap and that is fine by me. I have a ph pen, but never use it. I go by my instincts. As you are doing.
Your instincts say, something is wrong. I would guess it is to do with the soil mix. Those blue pellets are a worry. Could be too much nutrients for such a young plant. But not to worry. They will pick up. They nearly always do.
Just give them water for the next two weeks and we will see where we are. Don't over water. (my regular mistake)
Don't give up. That would be the easy way out. Do enjoy your grow. Sing to them, wave a pilchard over them while humming "Sloop John B"
Keep in touch. We Will Make It Happen. It ain't over till the fat penguin sings. And I don't sing. And I'm not fat. Well, not too fat. Well, fairly fat.
Actually, a bloater.
eP.