Others plant the seeds soon after harvesting and forgo soaking and nicking. Planting the Seeds Seeds can be planted in a commercial seed starting medium or a mix can be made out of some combination of sand, perlite, vermiculite and Canadian peat. It is best to keep the temperature about 75 - 80F degrees and the medium damp, but not soggy. Others use trays with clear domes and germinate the seeds inside under lights. After the seedlings have developed several sets of true leaves and the stems have begun to harden and become woody, they may be moved to a larger pot.
Some growers plant their young seedlings in the ground in their own bed.
These small seedlings should be gradually introduced to sun over several days. Remember they are tender, so avoid temperatures in the 40s. Blooming and Evaluation Eventually, after anywhere from 6 to 18 months, your seedlings will begin to bloom and the evaluation will begin. This is all part of the fun. If the seedlings meet the criteria, you may want to name, register and show the them in competition.