I've heard you should keep the bale wet, watering each day. Now that the transplants and seeds have been in for a week plus, I'm afraid of over watering the plants when watering the bale each day.
Should I try to stay away from plants/potting mix when watering the bale?
Watering after planting
If it's been raining at all since you planted them they are probably still set enough. If in doubt I often just stick my finger in the straw to see if it feels wet. They will hold water for a long time. There is no need to water heavily unless you get a drought. I tend to water well if I am going away because I know they will hold that water for a while. I always water around the seedlings when I do water - I'm just gentle - no heavy deluge. How are your things doing and is this your first time using straw bales?