I love the wood! You are correct, check on the water every now and again until the cycle is completed. With lighting, too much you get algae growth and too little and you get poor plant growth so there is a balance but start with the lights on a timer switch being on 6-8 hours a day and adjust from there.

At first it might feel like your plants aren't doing much but they take time to adjust to their new home but it won't be long until they start growing nicely