You're not a hypocrite for trying something better. It just takes time to dial in the right mix. Your ferns will adapt or you'll find a balance that works.

Isn't it strange how lens pens are kinda underrated? I read a piece on a photography site that called them the best kept secret for field cleaning. Mine lives in my camera bag and has saved me so many times. The only downside is remembering to clean the brush end regularly so you don't just push dust around.

Card scrapers for tacky glue, chisels for dried bits.

I ALWAYS thought algorithms were smart, but you're RIGHT, they just push popular trends. My old bookmark folder actually had unique finds that algorithms never show. Now I see why personal curation BEATS automated feeds.

You said the pictures don't match the parts. Was that the main problem, or were the steps wrong too? That sounds even more annoying than just missing a piece.