I use lemon juice for ph down as I saw another on this thread does. You do not kill beneficial microbes in the soil that way.
The main 'trick' I do is use preamended soil. I can give the formula to those that want it. I do not use fertilizer at all just water. So much easier.
I dry the plant with all the leaves on it whole, no chopping. Takes longer and gives a better result for me. Cure is simple, leave it in the jar till it gets wet, open the jar till it gets dry, put it back in. Repeat till it gets to your desired level of moisture. No hygrometer needed.