I tried that and it failed miserably. Just use plain ole peat.
I started mine in a foil pan 2in full of peat and ended up with
so many plants I started selling seedlings.
Give them a shot of miracle grow after they're about an inch high.
They (roots) are easy to separate from each other if you just take chunks
and submerse the dirt/roots in water.
Oh, move them from the pan after they're at least two inches tall, and
up to five inches. Just keep the soil moist and out of direct sun.
We now purchase tobacco leaves. The leaves are not taxed so a carton of cigarettes still costs about $10.00. Five pounds of tobacco leaves and twelve cartons of tubes (shipping included) $100.00 If anyone is interested in the seller who also sells electric cigarette makers, just send me an e-mail.