Piglet,

Welcome to the forum,

As for how long till you see something. I use the paper towel method for germination but this I do know, for the seed to crack is anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, then from there for the seed to pop out of the soil is another 48 to 72 hours, so it could be 3 to 7 days before you see anything. Make sure you keep them nice and warm around 80 to 85 degrees this helps speed things up. Also have a fan blowing on them before the sprouts emerge from the block. I never used a dome for germination or sprouts only for cloning. That is my way though, I have read about others using a dome though.

I am a soil grower so I do not know much about hydro, but I can help with lighting, electrical, and some growing questions.

Best of luck and keep us posted on your progress.