Hi Phillbo;
Here are the most specific start-up instructions I could find online (they gave me chemistry levels) which was what I was looking to aim for. This url is from the National Plasterer's Council website (no affiliation).

http://www.npconline.net/start%20up.pdf

I have been following the instructions in here for an exposed aggregate finish. I have 3M Colorquartz and it's looking good. If you'd like you can see it here (pardon the landscape that's next!):
http://www.annonemoose.com/pool/DSC00705.JPG
Jo