Cheryl, just a thought, I think you mentioned 1/8 of soil on your seeds? I think possibly the reason you didn't have a better experience is that as far as I know that's too much soil! I believe the amount of soil should be no greater then the thickness of the seed. I'm sure others may have other opinions but I've had very good luck following that rule which I think came from Ol Wilfred. That's one of the reason ya have to use a spray bottle to water them so you can be careful and not wash away the oh so thin soil layer. No expert here, but just passing on a thought.
Jim