I use the ziplock tubs and they work perfect! I use the equal parts vermiculite to water by weight and that in combination with the ziplock tubs has proved to be a great method. As for the incubator I would use at the very LEAST 2 foot of the 11". You could run it down the back and on the top also(I myself would try and get 3 foot in there). It is easier to control hotter temps in the incubator than it is to heat it with the lack of power(you will over work your heat tape, and that is not risk that I would like to take personally). Hope this helps you.