I didn't have any luck with putting them in the ground. I started them in 6" pots with regular potting soil. Probably 5 seeds to each pot. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. It didn't take long at all. When they are up to about 6-8 inches tall I put them in the ground and I actually had blooms the first year. Put them in sun and keep them watered and fed with a good fert.

You should plant them in good seed starting soil and plant with about a 1/4-1/2 inch of soil over the seed. You should nick and soak the seed for about 2 hours to help it germinate. Hope I helped.
Good luck,
Mike