I planted french marigold in the prop on sunday and a few have already germinated, its j arthur bowers multipurpose compost, I think you are probably right and would sent a sample to the manufacturer and where you purcased it.

did they get too hot/dry in the few sunny days we have had. they may have started to germinate then died due to the high temp. That has happened to mine before.

Steve, that's wierd, and so disappointing. If you do find that its the compost do let us know please.

Yes SBG, I lost a sowing of leeks like that - let them dry out at a critical time and none came through at all. Serves me right.

I did an experiment with some tomato seeds from the same packets last Sunday. I bought some wilkos potting compost and mixed with perlite which is what I normally do and I have had 100% germination which would suggest that it is the gro-sure potting compost so I will be on to the manufactures and what they have to say.

Let us know!

Please do....that was a clever idea to do a test!

But this doesn't take into account fluctuations in temp that would have been different when you did it the first time. [sorry that's the scientist in me :o)]
Sow seeds into both composts at the same time in the same light/heat conditions etc. then the only difference is the compost.

Quick update I have been in contact with Westland and they have sent me a bag and prepaid postage envelope to send them a sample back they think if its the compost they maybe too much fertilizer in the compost and it is killing the seeds. They also sent me £16 worth of national garden gift vouchers which was a nice surprise will keep you all updated when Westland get back in contact with the results from the tests.

Thats brilliant Steve. it is often worth a gentle whinge. :o)

If it is the compost as seems likely just think of the problems for them......