Yellow wood glue will also seal the ends.
The local woodturners informed me about using yellow wood glue on the ends. I have used wax sealers in the past but I always run out, titebond II is cheap at HD. It works great for me.
I agree with what others said up the air flow. Once it is stickered, use racket straps around it to keep it flat or add a layer of scrap wood or tin on top and add some weight to help keep it flat. Also, first and foremost make sure the base is level, like many things in life a good foundation is important.
Good luck