Well gentlemen and ladies, #1 is no longer with us.

Unfortunately I think I drowned it, what ended up happening is I think that the roots drowned. Every once in a while, the rapid rooter plugs would become very dry and I would dip them into the water for a second or two to moisten them up. I think that it may have done it. Can someone advice if this is recommended or not?.... I guess not, but I want someone to confirm the death if possible.

#2 is growing tall, however I have a feeling I am going to run into the same issue as with #1 (not the dipping, the thin stem and lack of growth). Picture of #2 attached, need a few pointers.