MumsGarden.com

According to the instructions on the packet, it says I have to keep the sown seeds outside in a cold frame. Is that what everybody does? I sowed my Columbine seeds on Dec 31, 2008 and still they did not germinate (though the packet says that I should wait 21-30 days).

If its veg seed, then its beneficial to mix compost into the soil, firm it down by walking over it, then give it a light rake over. Leave for a couple of weeks before sowing the veg seed or if planting small veg plants /onions/garlic/potatoes then they can go straight in , without waiting.
If sowing flower seeds then there is no need for compost unless your soil is poor.Shrubs and trees like a small amount in the planting hole.

But I read that the sowing rate when creating a mini-meadow is only 3-4 gram per square metre. Is this correct and if so why such a significant difference?

Take some cotton…wet it, and place seed in the wet cotton. After a few days, you’ll see the little plant sprouting out of it. Then remove it and put it into dirt.