low germination rates... suggestions?

For my first grow I germinated 4 seeds each of Northern Lights, Afghan, Orange Bud, and schwag bag seed. I planted each germinated seed (root tip down) in a 16 ounce cup of miracle grow potting soil and put them outside in an area with some cover, but also some direct sun. End result is it looks like I have one plant that made it out of each type. The ones that made it are very healthy looking. But all the others died. So that is a 25% success rate at just getting a germinated seed to the vegetative stage!!

Seems pretty shitty to me. In hindsight, I suppose I should invest in a florescent light to grow the seedlings up to at least a few inches in height before putting them outside. Also, perhaps I should not use "miracle grow" infused soil at first.

Any other suggestions? Or maybe what I've done has "weeded out" weaker plants. I don't know... like I said, first time growing.

Your germ rate is not the problem. If the seed split open, it germinated. It is the care of the emerging seedling that you need to work on.
-Miracle gro potting soil is too 'hot' chemically for seedlings. Use unfertilized potting soil.
-Keep them out of direct sunlight for a while... if the top inch of the soil dries out, the seedling, which has very little root structure at this point, will die.
-Your idea of flourescent tubes to start under for a little while is a good one.

might try a propagation tray to start them with if you keep them warm 80 -85 degrees and keep the humidity high by using a dome for the first 1-2 weeks and use a better soil you will have alot higher success rate.