Germination Problems, Help Please

[Rusty Trichome]

Things I know i did wrong: Tap water, if this is a big problem i will use purified next try?

Seeds prefer a slightly acidic enviornment to germinate. That's why most peat based seed starting mixes are unbuffered. (peat moss is acidic)

Am I meant to keep them dark?

Yes, keep them in the dark till they crack.

Is there anything else I can do? I heard something about shaking the seeds around in a match box. Soaking the seeds in water for 24hours.

You're missing part of the matchbox technique. (the sandpaper lining) Some harder to crack seeds benefit from scuffing the shell a bit. This removes some of the seed's waxy coating and allows moisture in. The seed absorbs the waqter making it swell and crack-open. But don't overdo it with the sanding.

PS. Sorry, couldn't seem to get previews working for the pictures so you'll have to open up the links.

Did you try to upload the pictures as an attachment? (the paperclip symbol)

Have patience. Sometimes they just take a while.