I feel your frustration! You said you had been watering sparingly...have you kept the top of the soil somewhat moist, misting occasionally? I dried my seedlings out too much if I didn't keep the soil misted (not wet or soggy)...I am new, just letting you know my experience. I've heard this can cause mold on the soil, but I didn't have a problem with it. I also read that misting the top of the soil allows the small leaves to absorb some water (the roots are developing and can't pack in as much as when they get bigger). Again just a thought. S