Christine: I winter sowed mine last year in a sturdy plastic container (sam's cookie box), left them in a semi-shaded spot all summer and this winter they germinated. I didn't do anything to them other than ignore them... but they were in a spot that would get regular watering.

I'm going to look for seeds on my big plant this year, I hear they are much quicker if you plant them right away.

Lisa

Quicker?
Do you mean if you take them from the plant and put them directly into dirt? I guess I'm a little confused, as that's what I thought you described with your Sam's cookie box.

I think I'll do the same though. I have a peat pellet container (although no more peat! I'll use dirt) I can set up, put it into a place where it will be shaded, get indirect sun and some rain.

I really love these little devils. I was thrilled to see 2 of my 3 made it through being twisted by Isabel, then my 1st winter. IOW, they made it despite me. They have new season growth, too! :)
Thanks, Lisa.

Christine