Seeds exist in a state of dormancy, absorbing oxygen, giving off carbon dioxide, and slowly using up their stored food reserves. During this process the seed continually monitors the external environment waiting for ideal conditions specific for the particular seed. Once the ideal conditions occur, the seed breaks dormancy and germinates. The seedling gathers energy through its leaves by the process of photosynthesis and absorbs nutrients and water from the soil through the roots. (link)

To germinate seeds you will need:

• A container with drainage holes e.g. cell trays, egg trays or cups.
• Wash used containers with warm soapy water and rinse with a dilute bleach solution. 
• A well draining potting mix or a commercial seed starter which you can purchase 
• A pack of your favourite seeds

Now that you’ve gathered everything: 

• Slightly overfill your container with the potting media tapping the bottom and sides of the container to encourage settling. 
• Level the top of the potting mix. 
  Thoroughly wet the potting mix allowing any excess water to drain out. 
• Make a very small dent into the potting mix with your finger. 
• Place seeds in the hole. Depending on the size of the seeds, you may need to add up to 3 seeds per hole. 
• Cover the seeds with a thin layer of potting mix. 
• Mist the tray with water and cover container with a plastic bag or plastic wrap (this helps to conserve the moisture) for no more than 24 hours. 
• Remove plastic and place container in an area out of direct sunlight misting occasionally to keep the potting mix moist. Moisture is critical for germinating seeds. They like a moist but not soggy environment. 
• When a seedling (small plant) emerges place in direct sunlight to encourage healthy growth.  Seedlings should be at least 3 inches before replanting. Follow instructions on package for planting depth, light requirements and mature height. 
• Fertilise two weeks after replanting.
  

For Your Information:

• Annuals: Plants that sprout from seed, grow, flower, set seeds, and die all in one growing season.
• Perennials: Plants that live and flower year after year.
• Self Seeding: An annual's ability to drop seeds that germinate successfully and grow into seedlings