I think what they mean is put the seed on top of the potting compost and then cover it with 1/2" of vermiculite and leave to germinate.
You don't have to use vermiculite, I put them on their sides into small pots filled with potting soil and cover with about 1/2" of potting soil, then water them. They will need warmth to germinate so a sunny windowsill or as I do put them into the airing cupboard, they should germinate within about a week. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged whilst germinating, to help maintain moisture cover the pots with plastic. Once the seedlings emerge take the plastic off otherwise they'll dampen off.
I'd say it's too early to start right now though, I'll be sowing around late march. :)