Question
QUESTION: I've propogated/hybridized daylillies from seed, and always "winter" them first for 6-8 wks in the refrigerator. Is the cold treatment necessary for tender annuals such as Celosia, or do I just wait until next spring to start them (under lights)?

ANSWER: Hi Steve,
Thanx for your question.  Celosia does not benefit from a cold treatment.  Plant the seed on top of your potting soil and press the seed in the soil but don't cover.  They will sprout quickly at 75 F.  I would not start them until 4 weeks before the last frost.  I hope this helps.
Tom

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response. To go one step further, is there any generalization (or source) about the treatment of retrieved seeds from annuals or perennials re necessity of cold treatment.  I had no success with Platycodon seeds that weren't given cold treatment. Coincidence or causal?

Answer
Hi Steve,
Thanx for the followup.  Platycodon germinate best at 70F so no cold treatment is necessary.  They can, however, be slow or erratic in germination so be patient and wait up to 4 weeks for germination.  Make sure they are warm but not hot.  I've never used cold treatment on platycodon seeds and generally they germinated within 2 weeks.

I use Norm Deno's books on germination.  I also just do a Google search when looking up information on germination and propagating conditions but it's been so many years now, with most varieties it's all in my head now.  I know that's not worth much to you so in general, I just get on Google and do a search.  I always find what I'm looking for.

I hope this helps.
Tom