Honestly my best improvement over time seems to be taking a thin angled cut leaving more open area for powder or the gel to take. In the first stages less is almost more. I choose a cocoa or soil medium and it seems to be more forgiving in over and under watering clones. I love basic florescent tubes for clones.. again going with the concept less is more. These are my experiences. As you go on your way trust your gut and develop your growing instincts. I'm never to far to learn, in the community we are actually excited to try new ways.. They aren't always better. Happy Growing! I hope you can get to 95% clone rate. It takes a bit of luck even for the best. Even the best CDL drivers in the world blow over on windy bridges.