While sprouting, the seed first puts down a root to insure it has a moisture supply. Only then does it make a shoot and head for the light. Seeds usually need to be kept moist only until they are putting down their first root. The time required for this to happen depends on the species, the vigor of the particular batch of seed, soil temperature, and weather. Suppose you bring your seeds to the point where they have started making a root before you put them into the soil? This is chitting.

The idea is that you get the seed sprouted under nearly ideal conditions; when the root has emerged, you plant the seeds root side down. It should help the little plant get a head start and avoid the problem of drying out. It’s also handy if you’re using oldish seed, as I am; you can take a look at the germination rate and use that information to help you decide how much seed to plant.

What do you mean by “chitting?” I’ve heard of people planting fava beans during the fall to help lock in nitrogen (I think that’s the reason) but I’ve never heard the term chitting before.