Propagation: Stratification for Lobelia Cardinalies or heat mat?, 1 by pennefeather

pennefeather wrote:
Although I have checked several websites, I have confusing, conflicting information regarding the cardinal flower. This is my first time starting them, so I don't have any real insight into the best way to do this. At the present time, I have sown my seeds, and put them outside, because I read somewhere they need stratification. They are against the house, out of the direct wind, but not in a coldframe or greenhouse. They aren't covered.

A couple of places that Iooked at actually mentioned heat, which surprised me.

I'm not sure if I should allow them to remain outside for several weeks, and then perhaps move them inside to my unheated garage, but it wouldn't provide them with a lot of light compared to outside. I could also put them in my planting room, which is cool, (and not on a heat mat), so that they have a lot of light. Should I wait until I begin to see some growth or do they need to come inside earlier?

I would appreciate any input from someone who has successfully started these seeds.