I put some prickly poppy (Argemone) seeds, which I thought might require pre-treatment, in damp paper towels where they sprouted right away. Mid-February is when I usually begin starting seeds anyway, so I'd better break out the planting packs!
I'd like to recommend the Abyssinian primrose (Primula verticillata) which I started from seed last year. It is blooming away now, despite the fact that I have several plants packed into a single clay pot where they wilt frequently. As advertised, it does tolerate dry conditions well and has a lovely silvery farina on the upper leaves and buds.
