Some seeds benefit from treatment before sowing to induce or hasten the germination process.
If a seed requires pretreatment, the seed packet will say so. As a rule, soaking seeds in tepid to hot water overnight before sowing encourages rapid germination. Presoaking is necessary for seeds with chemical inhibitors that must be leached out before sowing and is recommended for larger, thick-coated seeds like parsley. To scarify small seeds, place them in a jar lined with coarse sandpaper, cover, and shake vigorously. You can simulate winter by covering the seeds with damp peat moss and refrigerating them in a plastic bag for the specified time.