[steven c]

has anyone had similar problems germinating patti pan  [scallop squash ] other large seed courgette cucumber butternut squash all ok we last grew these in 2017 i cannot remember if they were a problem we pre chitt all our larger seed in takeaway tubs in airing cupboard which seems to work great them we only put in propagator viable seed but out of 20 in cupboard for about 10 days nothing with the patti pan spoke to seed supplier they say no problems have been mentioned??.

[Nobbie]

I find most courgette seeds have great germination rates with fresh seed chitted in an airing cupboard. Even 3 year old seed seems to have a more than 50% success rate. Where did you get the seed? My recent purchase of chilli seed at B&Q failed in two successive showings, so definitely the seed at fault.

Maybe no one else has tried sowing them yet? It is rather early for courgettes. I’d be contacting them again later in the year when others may have had similar issues.

I’d buy new seed from a different supplier and if they chit successfully, request a refund.

[Subversive_plot]

Steven C, what you are doing is exactly what I would be trying.

One thing that might make a difference, there are two general methods of chitting, first method is a few hours soak, followed by leaving between layers of damp kitchen paper in either a container, or a plastic bag. Second method is following the soak, just place them in a container with maybe 1/4 teaspoon of water in the bottom, no kitchen paper.  I find that second method works a treat for squashes and cucumbers.  Just the slightest bit of heat helps as well.

If you are doing that, I can't suggest an improvement, and IMO it is likely the seed.  Best of luck getting it sorted out.