Most perennials from seed do not flower the first year. You probably need to do a little research on each. I know that Delphinium and Shasta Daisy did not for me.

Interesting. I was told that they would. I guess we will see. THANK YOU for your input I really appreciate anyone's thoughts on this.

I have better luck starting seeds through winter sowing rather than sowing inside. You might want to look at the Garden web's winter sowing threads. It's easy and really good. You use plastic milk jugs. I've not had problems with damping off with them.

You might want to look at the annuals like Shirley poppies, annual larkspur, and some other early summer bloomers which are tallish.

I've never much cared for soapwort...sort of a dissappointing plant for me.

I've only started vegetable seeds inside but I reckon it's probably similar. The temp needs to be between 65-70 to germinate. Soil should be moist when you plant the seeds. You will need a light source after they sprout. I would use a large container and start them asap if you want them flowering this year. I'm not sure they will, but if they said they will then your best shot is planting early. Use empty milk jugs (cut top off) with a few holes drilled in the bottom. These are also great because you can "see" the roots growing. Good luck!

I seeded Shasta Daisies in my home last year (late, not until April if I remember correctly). I started them in 2-cup size plastic containers from the Indian food place in Lexington (Tandoor).. perfect size. I filled half with seed starting mix, dropped in the seeds, watered with sprayer, put on lid and then sat on top of my water heater. They sprouted in a week. I then put them in the basement under lights for a couple weeks before transplanting into 6-packs.

Then I grew them under the florescent lights until the end of May when I put them outside (shown here to the right of the Italian Stone pine in the pic)

On July 19th

And then they flowered in late August\September

So it is possible to get blooms the first year (I did), though it was not that many.

If you are relying on flowers for an event and have no idea what you are doing - I would suggest a florist for the flowers.

HOWEVER, join us on the winter sowing forum and we will help you learn to grow from seeds in the winter outdoors. This is a great method for KY and Ohio.

Good morning, I really appreciate everyone's help. The flowers are to be planted in my garden, so my back up plan is to go to a landscaper to get plants, if all else fails. The seeds that I have are some that I have always wanted, so if they do not work this year, there is always next year, when I have more time to get them in the ground.