Scabious seeds, cover or not?

I collected some Scabious seeds last year and, according to various websites, it seems now is a good time (it's now Feb) to start them off indoors. However, some articles say don't cover the seeds with soil and some are saying put a light covering of soil or vermiculite. Comments/advice welcome. Many thanks.

 

I have grown them from seed now and then over the years, but can't remember what I did.
Germination was variable, but I had some successes.
I often use vermiculite for tiny seeds or those that need light to germinate and it does work very well.

I asked Google - which you may or may not trust
AI Overview


Scabious seeds require light to germinate, so they should be covered only very lightly or not at all. Lightly press them into the surface of moist, well-drained compost or cover with a very thin layer of vermiculite (about 5mm/0.25 inch max) to maintain moisture without excluding light.
Key Sowing Tips:

• Light: Essential for germination; do not bury deeply.
• Moisture: Keep the compost consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Temperature: Best germinated at 18-24c.
• Method: Place pots in a propagator or a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
• Timing: Sow indoors February–April or August, or directly outside in May.
• They typically germinate within 21 days