Planted a group last year, so waiting for them to comeback this year - they die back before heat of summer. Supposed to self seed - must do well in MN since these were picked up at a swap/sale.

Paul

I would plant them indoors, in a seed flat or pot, so that the soil can be kept constantly moist. Takes about 2 months for fresh seed to germinate, probably a little longer for stored seed. No cold stratification is required. Later, after the temperatures warm up, you can move them outdoors to a full shade location. If the seed haven't germinated at that time, cover the flat or pot with glass or thick clear plastic, to prevent wildlife damage.
Leave them in the starting mix for about a year before transplanting.
VA Bluebells require shade and constantly moist soil during their active growth and blooming period. Once the blooms fade and seed mature, the plant will go dormant and moisture is less demanding then.
They will form long, thick, shallow, horizontal rhizomes as they mature.

I am about 100 mi. south of their southernmost natural range and they are difficult to grow here, because of the summer heat and high soil temperature. About 3-4 years is about as long as they will survive, before disappearing. :

I have grown them with hosta for years. I have never tried starting them from seed, other than making sure I don't disturb the little ones that come up in the places I have them planted. I grew up surrounded by them, and still own the place where they've grown for over 100 years. I just go and dig up a clump now and then when I want them in a new spot. I think they are perfect companions for hosta. They offer a beautiful show in the spring, and then by the time the hostas get going, they are going dormant.

Love them. Once you get them established they do reseed and spread.

Connie