Question
Hello.

I bought an "Origami" Columbine at a garden store a few weeks ago. I did a little research online and decided I need more. Ha ha!

They're lovely.

I bought a packet of seeds today. It has 10 seeds in it.

It says to store in the fridge 3 weeks before sowing.

But it also says it needs temperatures between 55 and 65 F to germinate.

I live in Alabama, zone 7-8. The temperatures are now reaching the 60s during the day and the 40s-50s at night.

Do I still need to store the seeds for the next 3 weeks in the fridge?

Or could I put them in the starter pots and leave them outside and they'll germinate themselves?

Since there's only 10 seeds in the packet I'd like to try and get at least 5 to sprout.

It also says they should not be covered as they require light to germinate. Does this mean I just set them on top of the soil?

Thanks

Answer
Hi Desirai,
Thanx for your question.  Many references indicate that cold treating Columbine (Aquilegia) seed benefits germination.  I have never used cold treatment and have always had good look with germination.  Currently, I have columbine outdoors here in Kansas where it is still dipping into the 30s at night.  I think If you were to plant your seeds (just press them into the soil) the temps are cool enough at night still in Alabama and that would facilitate germination.  BTW, I used to live in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida many years ago and enjoyed going over to Gulf Shores, Alabama.  Anyway, I hope this helps.
Tom