I should think 14 ppm would be ok, but I have never used anything other than RO water which measures darn near 0, so can't say for sure. I figure I should give them the best chance I can to get them started.
LK, they should be greenish to slightly greyish. If they are black or brown they got cooked. Pick one up and check how sturdy it is. If it is a bit stiff, that is will stick up or to the side when so pointed, it's probably ok. If it's limp like boiled spinach it's dead. PM me your address if you need replacements.