Question
i have got some bird of paradise seeds from spain.  they are dried ones. i will soak them for 24 hours in water, i have heard around  is it always neccasary to cut the hard seed coating prior to planting. is this the case?   many thanks ole

Answer
Yes it is. This process is called stratification.

Stratification can be accomplished by nicking the seed with a knife using a small incision or by lightly rubbing the seed on sand paper. Like soaking the seed, this will break down the outer shell and speed germination.
  
The best detailed description of stratification I have found is attached below. If after reading this article you have any questions, please write back and I will be happy to clarify that particular subject.

http://www.gardenline.usask.ca/misc/seed_str.html

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike