Place seeds in a damp paper towel or mix them with moist sand.
Seal them in a plastic bag and store in the refrigerator at 35–40°F (1–4°C) for 4–6 weeks. Check weekly: If seedlings sprout in the fridge, remove them gently and plant immediately.
Check occasionally to ensure the medium remains slightly moist.
Sowing Instructions
Timing: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly outdoors in early spring or fall.
Seed Depth: Press seeds lightly onto the surface of the soil; do not cover as they need light to germinate.
Soil: Use well-draining, rich soil with good moisture retention.
Temperature: Keep at 65–75°F (18–24°C) for germination.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Germination Time: Expect seedlings in 2–4 weeks.
Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, spacing them 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart.