As far as the dark goes, I am following the lead from our local Hydroponics store. They start theirs in the dark and some of the books I've read said the same thing. The most crucial parts to seed starting are moisture and warmth as far as I know. I also use a self made starting mix of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part perlite, and 1 part vermiculite. Potting soil does not make a good seed starting mix. If I use those plants in the aquaponic system, I rinse the mix off the roots before planting in the bed or net pots. The key is finding what works best for you.