@MistyMagic I like the choice from ordering seeds, especially considering the short growing season.
For germination most seeds need consistent moisture. Some plants tend to have low germination rates in general, some herbs are pretty low.
If growing inside plants need good light or else they get leggy - tall, narrow and weak. Airflow is also important as damping off, caused by a fungus can kill them off. I also rinse all pots in a bleach solution before starting.
Outdoors the right temperature is needed. Some seeds will germinate too soon and then a cold night kills them off.
If transplanting from inside to outside hardening off is important. Seedlings need tme to adjust to the bright sun, cold nights and wind. An hour or 2 in the shade outside is the best way to start.